Psychologists Share How Enjoying True Crime Could Reveal Some Problems

Psychologist Dr. Thema Bryant was recently a guest on The Mel Robbins Podcast, where she delved into the topic of how individuals can reconnect and heal themselves after difficult experiences. In a thought-provoking discussion, she shed light on how some people are drawn to watching violent true crime shows due to their familiarity with trauma.

Dr. Bryant encouraged listeners to reflect on why they find solace in watching multiple episodes of true crime shows before bed, asking them to consider why trauma may be relaxing to them. She explained that individuals who grew up in high-stress environments often mistake peace for boredom, and in order to rediscover oneself, it is necessary to confront and embrace the discomfort that accompanies this unfamiliar territory. These insights resonated deeply with many listeners who took to social media to express their own experiences. Some individuals shared that violent media served as a distraction from the pain they were feeling in their own lives, redirecting their anger. Others revealed that it was not the trauma itself that was relaxing but rather the justice that characters or real people often received in those stories, a justice they felt was absent in their own lives.

One user acknowledged the personal growth they had undergone, noting that after working on themselves for the past two years, they could no longer consume true crime content as they once did. Another pointed out the profound impact of constantly exposing one's subconscious mind to graphic content, asserting that such exposure inevitably affects one's mood and mindset, hindering the healing process. Dr. Elizabeth Jeglic, a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, further explored why trauma survivors may find true crime narratives captivating. She posited that individuals with a history of trauma might be drawn to true crime as a means of re-experiencing and exerting control over those traumatic situations in a safe environment. Dr. Jeglic also highlighted that many individuals studying psychology or pursuing careers in the field have personal histories of mental illness, using their experiences to better understand themselves and facilitate their healing journeys. The insightful conversation around true crime shows and real life between Dr. Thema Bryant and Mel Robbins shed light on the complex relationship between trauma, media consumption, and healing. It showed that finding comfort in violent media may indicate a deeper need for self-reflection and counseling. Ultimately, exploring motivations and seeking healthier avenues for healing could be helpful to anyone who wants to experience a more profound and sustainable transformation.