The subject of true crime has experienced a huge spike in popularity over the past five years. We can perhaps trace this back to the first season of the podcast Serial, which quickly became a viral hit. But from that population of Serial-listening folk there emerged a group of people with an unquenchable thirst for more — we introduce to you: the true crime obsession.
Apparently, according the psychology, people are obsessed with true crime because they're curious about the dark shadows of the human psyche. Whether it be a documentary on Netflix or an episode of a podcast, these harrowing tales allow us to explore our deepest fears from a comfortable distance. I mean, a story about a brutal kidnapping and murder isn't nearly as scary when you're sitting in bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic.
It's also believed some people are interested in true crime based on a survival instinct — that the more they know, the more they will be able to protect themselves in the future. While we acknowledge these explanations are most likely accurate (these are experts, after all), we also can't deny the simple fact that true crime is just so incredibly fascinating. It's like a train wreck that you can't stop watching.
Though not for all, those who are obsessed understand how it can escalate to the point of addiction — like an itch that constantly needs to be scratched. Is it normal to be consumed with horrific crimes? Maybe not, but at least you know you're not alone.
Here's everything anyone who is obsessed with true crime will know to be all too true.
1. You've developed a tolerance.
Making a Murderer, though great, is child's play at this point.
2. The more messed up the better.
You're practically desensitized at this point.
3. Any time is a good time for true crime.
What's a better way to start your day than with a story of brutal murder?
4. There's something so attractive about someone who shares your sick obsession.
5. You've gotten pretty cynical — and you're ok with it.
The night is dark and full of terrors, but c'est la vie, am I right?
6. Wikipedia is a godsend.
I mean really, what's more therapeutic than a Wiki deep dive? Especially a late-night one on your phone in bed — it's like a sweet lullaby that sings you to sleep.
7. You think about JonBenét Ramsey, a lot.
Justice for JonBenét!
8. You already knew about all the cases that are just now getting popular.
Oh, you're just learning about Ted Bundy now? To be young again...
9. You like to think you're more prepared if something happens to you.
But, really, you're just that much more terrified.
10. You love a good conspiracy theory.
What's better than a true crime case wrapped up in a conspiracy theory? Not much, my friend, not much.
11. You have all the local crime apps.
And you may or may not have driven by the incident to check it out.
12. You've legitimately questioned your sanity.
This can't be normal, right?
