The way we consume media has changed dramatically over the last 20 years – from how we consume it and interact with it, to the position it has in our everyday lives. The development of online streaming platforms, such as Netflix, has shaped how we consume TV content in a new way and, as Jenner (2018) argues, re-shaped television. These platforms have also introduced new, specific behavioral patterns that their audiences have adapted to, and one of the most important ones is binge-watching. Jenner describes it as:

‘Binge-watching, a practice where several episodes of a serialised programme are watched on a medium other than linear television, has become more than a mode of viewing to Netflix. It has become a publishing model that dictates how content is supposed to be watched on Netflix.’

(Jenner, 2018:109)

Binge-watching is often critiqued as a harmful media consumption practice because excessive binge-watching may have negative effects on both physical and mental health. It is also connected to escapism and social isolation and can be seen as an addiction-like forms of behavior.

But at the same time, binge-watching has become part of a ‘basic’ millennial’s daily routine, a cultural norm, and even a meme topic. There are thousands of binge-watching-related memes on the internet, and binge-watching has become accepted as a broad and standardized behavioral pattern of media consumption.

Some shows have even become linked to seasonal bingeing, which is watching a show in a specific season (like summer or autumn). For example, there is a popular meme trend about the show Gilmore Girls, and people who regularly rewatch it every fall. Even Netflix’s marketing team has joined in on the joke, referring to autumn as ‘Gilmore Girls season’ and using this fan-made internet joke for social media promotion.

Apart from memes, there is also a trend of TikTok videos about the ‘Gilmore Girls Time of The Year’ in which people create content about watching the show in cozy environments.

But what if there is a positive side to binge-watching and rewatching our comfort shows?

Some psychologists note that binge-watching comfort shows can be good for us because it can be physically calming and perceived as a form of self-care. Others point out that comfort watching can even be therapeutic, helping people overcome stressful or traumatic events and avoid negative thoughts.

So, the next time we start binge-watching our favorite show for the 10th time, we can argue that it is a form of self-care and not a consequence of the behavioral patterns big streaming platforms are forcing upon us. Or maybe it is better to think about other forms of self-care, just in case.

References:

Jenner, M. (2018). Netflix and the reinvention of television. Palgrave Macmillan

University of California. (2024, November 20). Why binge-watching might actually be good for you. Accesed: 19.11.2024. University of California. https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/why-binge-watching-might-actually-be-good-you

Sweeney, E. (2024, November 20). How rewatching Gilmore Girls is actually good for your health. Accesed: 19.11.2024. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2024/11/20/lifestyle/how-rewatching-gilmore-girls-is-actually-good-for-your-health

Author: Marina Zec, 33839036