Media contributions
1Media contributions
Title The Guardian Degree of recognition International Media name/outlet The Guardian Media type Print Duration/Length/Size Web & Print Country/Territory United Kingdom Date 26/12/25 Description Imogen West-Knights’ TV viewing habits are more common than many realise (I hate this TV series I’m binge-watching, yet I’m on track to complete all 177 episodes. Why am I doing it?, 15 December). Media is consumed like any other product, and streaming platforms make this process easier than ever. Progress is meticulously logged on screen, offering a sense of achievement that can encourage what might be termed “hyperconsumption”.
Rewatching familiar series removes the “hit or miss” experience often associated with streaming services, where quality varies. West-Knight may be experiencing a compulsion rather than addiction. Even when the viewing experience feels like a miss, the satisfaction of completing a series can outweigh the lack of enjoyment. And being a “completist” has never been easier, thanks to streaming services.
Prof Craig Jackson
Birmingham City UniversityURL https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/dec/26/why-we-get-hooked-on-rubbish-tv-series Persons Craig Jackson