Problematic and Non-Problematic Binge-Watching Engagement, Flow and Empathy among Young Adults: A Correlational Study

Abstract

Binge-watching is becoming a social phenomenon that knows no bounds to any age, region, or culture, and hence is gradually affecting all of us, both in a positive and a negative aspect. The youth of this generation is hooked on binge-watching, and the intention behind this research is to find the problematic and non-problematic engagement motives for them to do so and correlate them with factors like 'flow' and 'empathy'. In this study, data (N=222) was collected from Indian young adults within the age range of 18-30 years through a survey containing the BWESQ, TEQ, and FSS questionnaires. Using Pearson's product-moment correlation, correlation between all the dimensions was calculated. A significant positive correlation resulted between non-problematic and problematic binge-watching engagement motives with flow factors-'absorption by activity' and 'perceived importance'. No significant correlation was seen between the motives and empathy. Results stated that people involved in binge-watching experienced a flow state while being completely focused and attentive during the activity. This research describes why more and more young adults are indulging in this behaviour and what discriminates healthy and non-healthy binge-watching engagement.