The Motivation Behind Binge-Watching Practices: Impact on Health in Pakistan

Abstract

Many people like binge-watching. It means watching 2-4 episodes in one sitting. Various reasons have led young adults to binge-watch, which has grown very popular. This study's main objective is to check the effects of binge-watching on psychological and physical health. Under the theoretical framework of uses and gratifications, the researchers use a quantitative approach and convenient sampling techniques to collect data from all ages and genders in Pakistan. The online survey was conducted conveniently to collect the sample from the population. Focused on 300 participants, the study received 386 participants. The data indicates binge-watching is driven by Enjoyment, relaxation, escape from boring routines, diversion from stressful events, loneliness relief, parasocial contacts, and cliffhanging episodes. Results show Netflix is the most popular. Furthermore, results conclude that loss of control over content consumption, increased feelings of loneliness, disruption of a healthy sleep cycle, procrastination, and feeling stressed out or anxious are some health impacts that binge-watchers might face in the aftermath of binge-watching. Future Recommendations include the study being done with a qualitative technique for more in depth analysis of effects of binge watching on health.