How do you like to relax? At least one person in the world right now is most likely sitting down to relax. People take pleasure in different types of entertainment. Sitting down to watch a show, documentary, or podcast are a few ways people like to unwind.
True crime is one of the many genres that has captured the likes of many people. According to Parrot Analytics, the documentary genre of true crime has been rapidly increasing (63% more series have been made from 2018 to 2020). I, along with Allison Cerritos (my classmate) are one of those many people who are intrigued by true crime. Allison explained to me, “I watch true crime when I have free time. I like watching it with my dad.” That can be true for others that watch true crime as well, the feeling of joy when watching it.
When really thinking about it, the reason why people watch true crime becomes much more complicated. People are attracted to true crime for many different reasons, just like how every person is unique. Although, a popular reason for some is the feeling of comfort or security established from it.
Psychological Interest
It can be relieving to know why an event occurred or the thoughts behind an action. Perhaps that is why psychologists strive to learn about the mind. The same can be said about people who enjoy watching true crime.
“Psychology Behind True Crime Obsession: Know the Red Flags” by Emily Kitazawa states, “In the case of our obsession with true crime, the field of psychology explains that we feel driven to understand the minds and motives of killers because we’re wired to try to make sense of threats in our environments.” People try to understand why criminals do what they do. It can bring a sense of peace to know the motive. Having the knowledge of what drives them, can lead to trying to validate what they did. Some people choose to see the good in the world and don’t believe a person (like a murderer) could commit such heinous acts.
Moreover, a documentary focused on a criminal’s perspective can be used to study their mind. An example of this is a Netflix series titled, “I AM A KILLER”. In this series death row inmates share their perspectives of the crimes they committed.
Safety
The aspect of safety or protecting yourself can play a factor in why we watch true crime. When watching true crime, you most likely see the events that lead up to the crime. It allows you to know what to do in the event that you’re in a similar situation. It gives you confidence and leaves you prepared to face off dangers in the world.
On top of that it allows you to see those dangers. The world is a huge place and some people are unaware of what takes place in it. True crime grants you the ability to see the reality of the world from the reassurance of your home. “… it is about processing my mental illness and learning to accept the world in which we live without leaving the comfort of my own home,” explains Casey Gomez. They find solitude in true crime when dealing with anxiety.
It’s possible that you may be feeling anxious about the type of person you are as well. Some people might not realize it, but they might be craving to see that they’re a good person. True crime can provide that. They can remind themselves of their inability to commit a crime (The Politic). It impacts how you see yourself as a human being and a part of society: That you’re not a horrible person.
Sense of Justice
The true crime genre displays real life criminals whose actions get (or should get) them punished for their crimes. People get to see firsthand the justice that was served. Casey Gomez further writes, “Some audiences love the justice element, finding satisfaction in the conclusions.” It brings a sort of satisfaction to the audience or delight.
The satisfaction from witnessing justice can inspire future career choices. People may want to work in the criminal justice field in the future. Allison Cerritos (in the same interview) talked about a future career as a criminal lawyer, an individual who defends those accused of a crime. That is just one person who felt inspired. True crime stories are found around the world and can inspire more people. The feeling of justice connected to true crime not only leads to feeling triumph, but also motivation.
The true crime genre not only entertains but also provides comfort, making it popular for many. Ultimately, people are drawn to true crime for various reasons. The desire to understand criminal motives, the sense of safety it provides, and the satisfaction of seeing justice served are just a few reasons. As we continue to enjoy true crime, we might ask ourselves the effects it has on our lives.
