She Strengthens

The Dark Allure of True Crime

As a self-proclaimed true crime aficionado, I’ve always been drawn to the macabre. My fascination with serial killers and gruesome crimes began at a young age, and I’d spend hours scouring the internet for stories and crime scene photos. But as I delved deeper into the world of true crime, I started to notice a disturbing trend: the genre’s popularity was growing exponentially, and with it, a sense of unease within myself.

The Empowerment Myth

At first, I thought true crime was empowering. Listening to podcasts like My Favorite Murder, I felt like I was part of a community that refused to be polite in the face of danger. I was convinced that by arming myself with knowledge, I could outsmart potential threats. But as I continued to consume more and more true crime content, the feeling of empowerment began to fade. I started to feel anxious, hyper-vigilant, and constantly on edge.

The Psychology of True Crime

So, why do people love true crime? According to Erin Parisi, a licensed mental health counselor, it’s because we’re driven by curiosity, fascination, and a desire to make sense of the world. We want to believe that by learning about crimes, we can avoid becoming victims ourselves. But this thinking can lead to victim-blaming, and a false sense of security.

The Victim’s Perspective

Women make up a significant portion of the true crime fan base, and research suggests that we’re drawn to stories where women are the victims. This identification with the victim can be a form of empathy, but it can also lead to anxiety and emotional distress. As Dr. Catherine Jackson, a licensed clinical psychologist, notes, “over-empathizing can negatively impact your overall emotional state.”

The Dark Side of True Crime

The truth is, true crime content can be overwhelming and depressing. Stories of injustice, wrongful convictions, and senseless violence can take a toll on our mental health. And yet, we continue to consume it, often at the expense of our own well-being.

Finding Balance

So, how can we enjoy true crime without sacrificing our mental health? According to Parisi, it’s about mixing it up and finding balance. By incorporating more uplifting content into our diets, we can offset the negative effects of true crime. And by being mindful of the type of content we consume, we can avoid perpetuating harm.

My Turning Point

For me, the tipping point came after a frightening incident last year. I realized that my true crime obsession was contributing to my anxiety and paranoia. I started to feel uncomfortable with content that was produced solely for entertainment value, and I began to question the girl power veneer that coated the genre. I didn’t need true crime to teach me about vulnerability; I knew it all too well.

Finding Joy Again

Giving up true crime wasn’t easy, but it’s been liberating. I’ve replaced my true crime podcasts with comedies and reality shows, and I’ve noticed a significant shift in my mood. I sleep better, I’m less anxious, and I’ve discovered a new appreciation for joy and laughter. I’ve KonMari’d my psyche, and it feels amazing.

As I look back on my journey, I realize that true crime is just that – a genre. It’s not a reflection of my worth or my ability to stay safe. And by letting go of my obsession, I’ve found a new sense of freedom and empowerment.