Binge-Watching Behaviour among Students: Viewing Patterns and Psychological Effects

Abstract

Binge watching, defined as prolonged viewing of two or more episodes of a series or season, has become a common way for people to consume entertainment media. It can have both positive and negative effects: however, it may boost enjoyment, healing experiences, and vitality by enhancing autonomy, it can also lead to guilt, anxiety, and goal conflicts, thereby reducing well-being. The study examines the patterns of binge-watching phenomena and its psychological effect on students. Data was collected from 150 students enrolled in various educational institutions in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, utilizing snowball sampling technique. The findings indicate that the majority of students consume digital media for 1- 4 hours per day. Participants perceived binge watching as an unsatisfying activity contributing to feelings of anxiety, depression, and decreased productivity. However, participants also felt that binge watching served as a coping mechanism during the COVID-19 quarantine, helping them deal with pandemic-related stressors.