Why Are Some People Obsessed With True Crime?

True crime has become a global phenomenon, captivating millions through books, podcasts, TV shows, and documentaries, especially in the last few years. Being one of the true crime content lovers, I have always wondered what is the thing that keeps me intrigued by true crime content. Although true crime has very disturbing sides, why do most people seem to consume content related to it? The reasons go beyond mere entertainment and delve into human psychology, curiosity, and even survival instincts.

A safe way of exploring danger

Psychologists suggest that humans have a more or less innate curiosity about danger. True crime allows people to confront their fears in a controlled and safe environment. What makes true crime appealing for most is its ability to help people explore their fascination with danger with no real-life risk. Listening to a true crime podcast about a serial killer on the way home or reading a book about a true kidnapping story helps people crack the door open without any actual danger.

The Thrill of the Unknown

The darker side of human nature, which many people never experience directly, is revealed through true crime. Curiosity is uncovered by the enigmatic aspects of these cases, such as unsolved murders, unexpected turns, and nuanced motivations. It is somewhat similar to solving puzzles, assembling evidence, and attempting to determine the "why" behind the crime. It can be rather fulfilling to feel this level of intellectual engagement.

Understanding Human Behavior

People are curious about the psychology of criminals. What would drive someone to commit such terrifying acts? What goes through their minds? True crime stories, mostly documentaries, often delve into the psychological and sociological factors behind criminal behavior, providing a deeper understanding of human nature. Trying to capture the reason behind the behavior of the criminal is one of the reasons people love true crime. Asking the question of nature versus nurture and trying to understand what caused the criminal’s behaviors is what keeps the content so vivid and real.

Desire To Solve Mystery

True crime lovers love engaging with unsolved cases. People like to come up with theories with the knowledge they have in their hands, feeling like amateur detectives and fostering a sense of involvement. Such involvement makes true crime a community-driven, belonging experience rather than just some kind of content.

Caution: Enough Is a Feast

Although it is accepted as normal and even beneficial to consume true crime content, there is also some criticism around it. Critics argue that consuming too much true crime content increases anxiety and causes paranoia among individuals, which would later cause them to perceive the world as more dangerous than it truly is.

What makes true crime special for its lovers is its capacity to captivate and educate people while also being amusing. It has the ability to fulfill many intellectual and emotional needs of individuals by offering a close look at human psychology, mystery, and danger. However, keeping a balance between curiosity and moderation is important to not being drawn by its darker effects while appreciating the genre.