Binge-Watching: A Suspenseful, Emotional, Habit
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2018
Publication Title
Communication Research Reports
Abstract
Binge-watching, simultaneously treated as both guilty pleasure and legitimate health concern in popular press and academic discussions, is a pervasive media behavior. Yet distinguishing it from other ways of television viewing remains elusive in communication research. The present study employs empirically supported variables to determine if different outcome expectancies are relevant to the frequency of binge-watching as contrasted with appointment viewing of television through the lens of the model of media attendance. Survey results (N = 797) of a college student and representative adult sample reveal that binge-watching is motivated in large part by the behavior already being an entrenched habit among viewers, while suspense and anticipation associated with content and motivation to use viewing to regulate one’s emotions are also significant antecedents. Conversely, more frequent appointment viewing of television viewing was driven by viewing efficacy and older age.
DOI
10.1080/08824096.2018.1525346
Version
Postprint
Publisher's Statement
This is an Author’s Accepted Manuscript of an article published in Communication Research Reports October 3rd, 2018, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/08824096.2018.1525346
Recommended Citation
Rubenking, Bridget and Bracken, Cheryl Campanella, "Binge-Watching: A Suspenseful, Emotional, Habit" (2018). Communication Faculty Publications. 67.
https://engagedscholarship.csuohio.edu/clcom_facpub/67
Volume
35
Issue
5
