Listen to this episode on the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod

I’m such a sucker for old reruns of The Office…or when I’m feeling a bit more nostalgic, I’ll rewatch Gossip Girl from the very beginning.

Typically, these occurrences happen on a lazy Sunday or a late night, pegged with insomnia.

To me, knowing what’s going to happen brings peace of mind, kind of a warm blanket (despite the actual dramatic content). And there is some psychology behind this rewatch phenomenon.

Psychology Today suggests that not only does rewatching programs you’ve already seen bring a sense of comfort, but it can also fulfill emotional needs we are seeking. Think about a romantic comedy – if you’ve already watched it, you most likely know that it will be a happily every after ending. Perhaps you’re in need of those thoughts at certain times of the year. Furthermore, the article refers to rewatching as ‘therapeutic nostalgia’, which transports us to a past time of happiness.

Similarly, rewatching can bring a sense of control and safety. We know what’s going to happen. There are no new surprises or thoughts that may cause us to feel any sort of way. Our own digital hug.

With the endless choices on streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu, the default to a show we’ve already watched is also not shocking. Decision fatigue and overwhelm can certainly lead to simply selecting a known favorite versus countless minutes scrolling and scrolling, debating and wondering if a new show is really worth your time.

Bottom line, rewatching a show is not a bad use of time. It serves a number of purposes, and if you’re like me and it calms the mind, helping you sleep at night, have at it!