Examining The Popularity Of True Crime And Its Impacts

From documentaries about serial killers to true crime podcasts, the popularity of true crime may continue to rise. Recent research shows that approximately 50% of Americans enjoy the true crime genre, and about 13% say it’s their favorite. While true crime content may help some individuals feel more prepared and safe, it can lead to adverse mental health effects for others. True crime content can also result in mixed effects on the families of victims and the communities where crimes have taken place. If you’ve experienced increased stress or anxiety due to true crime content, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist in person or online.

The rising popularity of true crime 

Interest in true crime may not be entirely new. As far back as the 1500s, pamphlets and chapbooks about crime and murder were handed out on the streets, and ballads about murder were performed and hung up around cities in England. However, the modern era of the true crime genre is often attributed to Truman Capote’s book, In Cold Blood, published in 1965. 

Since then, books, movies, and TV shows have shared the stories of true crimes. In 2014, true crime made its way to podcasting when the podcast Serial reached an average of 1.5 million listeners per episode. Since then, many of the top-ranked podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify tend to be in the true crime genre, including Crime Junkie and My Favorite Murder. Today, the average true crime fan may spend nearly four hours per week consuming true crime content. 

Why some people enjoy the true crime genre 

In a self-reported study, consumers of the true crime genre share a variety of reasons why they consume the true crime genre: 

• 73% said they watched out of curiosity 
• 46% said they find it entertaining 
• 45% said they enjoy the mystery element 
• 33% said they watch it for the storytelling
• 32% said they find the genre to be fascinating 
• 10% said they watch for the adrenaline boost
• 7% said they watch to prepare themselves for potential crimes 

Experts agree that the popularity of true crime likely comes from a few different factors. The mystery element may be a big one, as the true crime genre allows audiences to feel invested and like they’re participating in a real-life case. 

Dean Fido, Lecturer in Psychology, says, “As humans, we are always looking for something new and novel. Whether it’s good or bad, we need something that creates an element of excitement. When we mix this desire with insight and solving a puzzle, it can give us a short, sharp shock of adrenaline, but in a relatively safe environment.”

However, other research shows that it may have more to do with anxiety about potential threats. The majority of true crime consumers tend to be white women, and it’s hypothesized that this demographic may enjoy true crime because it makes them feel better prepared for a situation in which something violent happens to them. Other theories about why people watch true crime may include a desire to understand what drives people to do the unthinkable or to preserve a belief in the justice system. It may also be a way to reinforce one’s sense of moral clarity. 

What our culture’s fascination with true crime says about society 

Our culture’s interest in true crime can reflect various aspects of society. For one, it may point to a deep-seated curiosity about the human psyche and what drives certain individuals to commit crimes. The popularity of true crime could also signify a societal interest in justice and law enforcement. 

These stories often offer insight into the justice system. They may also highlight societal issues like corruption, inequality, and systemic failures. By bringing real cases to the masses, light can be shed on larger social problems, resulting in discussion and awareness. 

The collective interest in true crime can say many things about our culture, but at a minimum, it may highlight an interest in stories involving psychology, law, and crime. It may also serve as an indicator that humans need a compelling narrative to feel invested in important causes. More research may be needed to make definitive claims, but it’s clear that the interest in these types of stories likely won’t fade any time soon. 

The implications and effects of true crime

Whatever the motivation, consuming true crime can have an array of effects. From top podcasts to the latest true crime TV show covering current events, this type of content can affect the people who consume it and those directly affected by it. 

Effects on families and communities 

Watching a true crime TV show might seem like consuming fiction, but for the victims’ families and communities impacted by the real-world crime, the genre can seem exploitative and dangerous. 

For example, when someone listens to a true crime story, they may feel compelled to get involved. This can lead to people investigating independently and wasting the real-life investigator’s time on faulty leads. Some internet sleuths, inspired by true crime, have publicly accused innocent people close to the victim of committing the crime when they’re still actively mourning. 

Alternatively, true crime content can lead to harassment of the people close to the case. For example, the prosecutor featured in the true crime documentary series Making a Murderer is reported to have received more than 4,000 death threats for his involvement in the case featured in the series. 

Featuring a community in a piece of true crime media can also forever brand a location as being a place associated with that crime, which is often something residents don’t want. There may also be a concern with the ethics in true crime media, as most often, the stories featured include white female victims, while marginalized groups, like indigenous women, may be left out with their stories untold. 

Additionally, the popularity of true crime can have profound effects on the families of victims involved in these cases. For some families, the media attention and public fascination can be re-traumatizing. They are often forced to relive painful memories and experiences as the public dissects and analyzes the case. The sensationalism that sometimes accompanies true crime narratives can lead to a skewed portrayal of the victim of the circumstances of the crime, which can be distressing for families seeking to preserve the dignity and memory of their loved ones. 

On the other hand, the increased attention from true crime content can sometimes aid in bringing unresolved cases back into the public eye, potentially aiding in their resolution. This can provide families with a sense of hope and a possibility for closure. However, the overall impact on victims’ families can vary significantly, depending on individual circumstances and the nature of media portrayal. 

Effects on individuals

Some research shows that consuming true crime media might be beneficial, with some true crime fans claiming that consuming true crime entertainment has helped them prepare for dangerous situations. 

Additionally, some fans say that consuming true crime content made them take certain actions, such as prioritizing their safety, investing in home security, and taking self-defense classes. However, some also reported that they felt more anxious and fearful of their surroundings after consuming true crime content.

While consuming true crime can result in some positive behavioral changes, it can also result in several mental health consequences, such as the following: 

• Increased anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Obsessive thoughts about crime
• Disturbed sleep
• Paranoia
• Re-traumatization 

Not everyone who consumes true crime content will experience these side effects. However, some people likely will, especially if they consume large amounts of content regularly. If you’re experiencing these types of symptoms or have any unwanted consequences from true crime, consider reaching out to a therapist for support. A therapist can help you develop healthy coping strategies and better understand where your feelings are coming from. 

Benefits of online therapy

If watching true crime has made you feel anxious about leaving your home, online therapy might be an option worth considering. With online therapy, you can visit a therapist from the comfort of your home or wherever you feel most safe. 

Effectiveness of online therapy

Research has shown that online therapy can be as effective as traditional therapy at treating mental health disorders like anxiety. 

Takeaway 

In the past year, the true crime genre has continued to capture the public’s attention, potentially reflecting deeper societal interests and concerns. While there can be many reasons why people are interested in the genre, it may be essential to remember the real impact these stories may have on the victims’ families and their communities. It can also be important to know that consuming true crime content can cause unwanted mental health consequences. If that’s the case for you, consider reaching out to a therapist for help.