There are two types of people: those who are fascinated by true crime and those who can’t comprehend the former’s interest.

At times, we seek to understand ourselves or our neighbors, so let’s delve into this.

The primary function of any story is to offer an escape from our lives. Although we’re not dealing with fiction, our world is rife with violence, yet mysterious murders are distant from the challenges we most commonly face. Whether it’s losing oneself in a narrative, seeking entertainment, passing time, or adding an extra layer of interest to mundane tasks like cleaning, stories serve the same purpose, whether they’re fictional or not.

Moreover, true crime is a genre that allows us to experience a range of emotions. These can be emotions that surface while listening to a story (though after certain stories, one might wish for a memory reset—it’s important to gauge one’s moral fortitude and remember that witnessing trauma doesn’t necessarily require physical presence). It also includes emotions that arise in our daily lives. This genre provides an outlet for anxiety—our world is increasingly characterized by researchers as anxious, and this trend shows no signs of abating, creating a significant social need to manage anxiety. It also offers a chance to experience anger and, at times, to understand it.

Anxiety often drives us to seek control. True crime serves as a sanctuary for this control, albeit mostly illusory. The more knowledge I acquire on a subject, the more confident I feel about it. The sense of being informed is gratifying and is associated with feelings of security and confidence about the future. If I’ve listened to numerous podcasts about serial killers, perhaps I could actually protect myself from one?

This motivation could even be subconscious. We are frequently propelled by the desire to manage a situation—whether it’s one that might occur or one that has already transpired (hopefully not). This desire is particularly pronounced in situations where we are powerless. In instances of violence, control, power, and strength are not in our favor; otherwise, it wouldn’t be considered violence.

In our imaginations, we can conjure the most horrific scenarios. Yet, these do not always instill fear in us. This doesn’t imply that facing such scenarios in reality would evoke the same emotions. For instance, sexual fantasies about rape bear little resemblance to actual rape. There are distinct terms for these concepts: sexual fantasies and sexualized violence—the latter appears to be sexual but is not. The same applies to other scenarios. It all boils down to control, or the lack thereof.

While true crime stories allow us to explore the darker aspects of human nature from a safe distance, they can also stir up intense emotions and anxieties. If you find yourself deeply affected by these narratives, or if they bring up personal fears and concerns, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health specialist.

Professionals in psychology and counseling can provide a supportive space to process the emotions and reactions that arise from engaging with true crime content. They can also offer strategies to manage anxiety and help you understand your fascination with the genre in a way that contributes to personal growth and well-being.

Remember, exploring the depths of human psychology through true crime is a journey that doesn’t have to be taken alone. Platforms like Mentalzon offer a gateway to connect with therapists and counselors who are equipped to navigate these complex emotional landscapes with you.