Is binge-watching TV good for you?

You decide!

Puzzle Games

Background

It is estimated that well over half of the US population has engaged in binge-watching, defined as watching at least two episodes of a TV show in one sitting. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Peacock are designed to keep your attention with addictive content – and they’re doing a great job of it. While some argue that binge-watching is a harmless and affordable method of de-stressing, others worry that it can take a toll on your mind and body.

Is binge-watching good for you, or better to avoid? Read the arguments and decide for yourself!

Discussion Questions

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (from ProCon.org)

1. Do you prefer watching several episodes of a new show at one time or one episode per week? How does your viewing experience change when binge-watching?

2. What other pros and cons for binge-watching can you list? Which side do you find more convincing and why?

3. What reasons can you think of to explain why some streaming services like Netflix drop a full season at once? What reasons might a service such as Disney+ have for posting just one episode per week?