Why we get hooked on rubbish TV series

‘Even when the viewing experience feels like a miss, the satisfaction of completing a series can outweigh the lack of enjoyment.’ Photograph: Choreograph/Getty Images

Imogen West-Knights’ TV viewing habits are more common than many realise (I hate this TV series I’m binge-watching, yet I’m on track to complete all 177 episodes. Why am I doing it?, 15 December). Media is consumed like any other product, and streaming platforms make this process easier than ever. Progress is meticulously logged on screen, offering a sense of achievement that can encourage what might be termed “hyperconsumption”.

Rewatching familiar series removes the “hit or miss” experience often associated with streaming services, where quality varies. West-Knight may be experiencing a compulsion rather than addiction. Even when the viewing experience feels like a miss, the satisfaction of completing a series can outweigh the lack of enjoyment. And being a “completist” has never been easier, thanks to streaming services.
Prof Craig Jackson
Birmingham City University

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