If you’re a series enthusiast, you’ve likely uttered, “Just one more episode,” countless times.

While binge-watching might appear to be an unhealthy addiction, a recent study from the University of Georgia indicates that there could be advantages to not switching off the screen.

If you frequently catch yourself watching episode after episode, it may be tougher for a narrative to escape your thoughts, according to the researchers. However, that’s not automatically a drawback.

The research revealed that individuals who binge on movies, series, or books are more inclined to retain narratives and engage with them through daydreams and fantasies.

“Humans are naturally drawn to storytelling,” stated Joshua Baldwin, the principal author of the research and postdoctoral investigator at the University of Georgia. “One purpose of narratives is to fulfill desires for connection with others, feeling independent and confident, as well as providing a sense of security.”

“Tales feature characters that serve these functions, allowing us to meet those needs through them.”

Binge-watching may assist viewers in constructing mental landscapes where stories persist even after concluding the series. Furthermore, these narratives may aid them in navigating stressful periods.

Individuals who binge-watch more likely to connect with narratives through imagination

Binge-watching may enhance story retention by allowing viewers to link story elements and grasp a comprehensive view of the narrative. This is particularly applicable for extended series with numerous plotlines and characters to track.

The study implies that binge-watchers are more prone to reflect on completed stories than those who consume media at a slower pace.

“Individuals who possess the tendency to binge-watch typically aren’t doing so passively but are actively contemplating it afterward,” Baldwin noted. “They genuinely want to engage with narratives, even when they aren’t actively viewing shows.”

Memorable narratives better suited for imaginative engagement

To envision a narrative, an individual requires a strong recollection of it. Most participants indicated they often remember and fantasize more about stories they found enjoyable or deemed impactful and significant.

Overall, the respondents expressed that television shows were more memorable than literature. However, this doesn’t imply that books are easily forgettable.

“Considering avid readers, such as those who read an entire book from beginning to end, they might possess a better recollection of that book and a greater likelihood of mentally engaging with the narrative afterward,” Baldwin explained.

Binge-watching not always detrimental

Although the effects on well-being require further investigation, the benefits and drawbacks of binge-watching may ultimately depend on the individual, the researchers suggested.

“There’s a significant discussion about whether media is beneficial or harmful, but it’s always a nuanced conversation,” Baldwin remarked. “It hinges on the content itself, the reasons behind people watching it, the psychological background of the individual, and the context.”

The study appeared in Acta Psychologica and was co-authored by Ezgi Ulusoy, Morgan Durfee, Rick Busselle, and David Ewoldsen.

The post Can’t stop viewing a TV series? That may be a positive aspect first appeared on UGA Today.