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"Just One More Episode": How We Please (And Torture) Ourselves By Binge-Watching Netflix

An article explaining the psychological drivers of binge-watching, including dopamine, escapism, and the need for closure.

Sir Bingealot

08 August 2025 at 19:35 Update: 08 August 2025 at 19:42

When the later seasons of the popular series like Bridgerton or Stranger Things were released, many viewers devoured all episodes in one sitting. This viewing pattern, known as binge-watching, is now common for many people. The practice is driven by various psychological factors, including a deep connection to the storyline. It differs significantly from the traditional weekly release of television content.

Many people engage in viewing marathons as a form of escape. According to a 2013 Netflix survey, over 75% of respondents said that binge-watching provides a welcome refuge from the demands of their daily lives. By immersing themselves in a fictional world, viewers can temporarily forget their own stressors and responsibilities.

The Role of Dopamine

A primary psychological driver of binge-watching is the brain’s reward system. When engaged in an enjoyable activity, the brain releases dopamine. This neurotransmitter creates a feeling of pleasure that reinforces the behavior, making individuals want to continue watching.

Each episode, particularly those with a cliffhanger, stimulates this reward response. Clinical psychologist Dr. Renee Carr explains that this process can lead to a "pseudo-addiction" to the content. The brain develops cravings for the dopamine rush, compelling the individual to watch "just one more episode."

Narrative and Emotional Engagement

Binge-watching allows for a deeper and more continuous connection to the plot and characters. This uninterrupted viewing experience can lead to a state of "flow," where viewers are fully absorbed in the story and lose track of time. This intense engagement strengthens the bond between the viewer and the narrative.

Studies have shown that binge-watching increases the strength of "parasocial relationships" with characters. This means viewers feel as though they have a personal bond with the characters. This emotional investment makes it difficult to stop watching, as they feel a strong need to see the story through to its conclusion.

The Sense of Narrative Completion

A strong motivation for binge-watching is the desire for narrative completion. This is a cognitive need to progress through a story and learn its outcome. Viewers feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment when they finish a series, which mirrors the feeling of finishing a good book.

The availability of entire seasons at once enables this feeling of control. Viewers are no longer at the mercy of a weekly broadcast schedule. Instead, they can decide the pace of their consumption, which enhances their overall sense of power over their entertainment experience.