An Experimental Examination of Binge Watching and Narrative Engagement

Bibliographic Data

ID5933063
AuthorsErickson (0000-0003-2243-5876, Trinity University, corresponding author), Sonya Dal Cin (0000-0001-9168-8530, University of Michigan), Hannah Byl (University of Michigan)
Year2019
Volume8
Issue1
Pages19
Publication date2019-01-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueSocial Sciences (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2076-0760 • E-ISSN: 2076-0760
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/socsci8010019
OpenAlexW2909105761
LanguageEN
Citations received26
References cited19

Increasingly, audiences are engaging with media narratives through the practice of binge watching. The effects of binge watching are largely unknown, although early research suggests binge watching may be motivated by a need for escape and could be associated with some qualities of addiction. In this study, we ask whether the practice of binge watching impacts audience engagement with a media narrative. Using an experimental approach, we manipulate the format of exposure to media narratives (binge or nonbinge) and test the effect of this manipulation on audience engagement, specifically parasocial relationships with favorite characters and narrative transportation. Results suggest that binge watching increases the strength of parasocial relationships and the intensity of narrative transportation. Media engagement has been shown to increase media effects, suggesting that binge watching could change not only how audiences engage with narrative media but also the effect it has on them

Art · Literature · Narrative · Test (biology · Media Influence and Health · Media Studies and Communication · Media, Gender, and Advertising · Psychology · Social Psychology

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