Rewatching movies and series linked to seeking well-being, psychologists say

In an era of endless streaming options, the act of rewatching familiar movies and series has become a widespread phenomenon, driven by a deep psychological need for well-being and stress management. Experts note that this practice offers specific psychological benefits that new content cannot replicate.

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The predictability of a plot already known provides immediate mental refuge. When we go through periods of fatigue or anxiety, the brain seeks to minimize cognitive effort.

Research, including a study by Cristel Antonia Russell and Sidney J. Levy in the Journal of Consumer Research, identifies this as "reconsumption." They found that rewatching is not passive but a hedonic and restorative experience. People revisit known narratives to regulate emotions, process personal transitions, and reconnect with their identity. The predictability of a known plot provides immediate mental comfort, especially during periods of fatigue or anxiety, as it minimizes cognitive effort.

This preference for the familiar stems from the brain's desire to reduce mental strain. Unlike new stories that demand constant attention and create uncertainty, a known series eliminates the burden of suspense. Viewers know what to expect, leading to a feeling of security and control in an often unpredictable daily life. This familiarity directly aids emotional regulation by reducing cortisol, the stress hormone.

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Familiarity produces comfort and significantly reduces cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.

Furthermore, nostalgia plays a crucial role. Audiovisual works act as temporal anchors, linking viewers to specific past periods. Revisiting a favorite show allows individuals to reconnect not just with the fictional world but also with the emotional state they experienced during their initial viewing, reinforcing their sense of self.

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Audiovisual works act as temporal anchors that link us to specific stages of the past.