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Criminal psychologist explains why you love true crime so much


An expert has explained why it is we love reading about, watching and listening to true crime stories.

From podcasts such as Serial to the Netflix show Don’t F**k With Cats, we can’t get enough.

But when you stop and think about it, it’s all a little dark.

So why do so many people enjoy learning about these grisly murders and mysteries?

Dr Julia Shaw, a criminal psychologist, recently launched her own crime podcast with BBC, Bad People, along with comedian Sofie Hagen – and she’s been discussing this very topic.

Speaking to Stylist, Dr Shaw said she believes some of the excitement surrounding true crime comes from “being appalled”.

The Serial Podcast was one of the first to hook listeners

She explained that we get a little thrill from doing something that we know is “a bit taboo” like telling a lie or breaking the rules.

A small act can be thrilling – even if it makes us feel uncomfortable or guilty while we’re doing it.

Dr Shaw continued to say that it also might have something to do with the lack of fear we often experience in the real world.

By listening to or watching a true crime show, we are able to experience the “taboo-ness” and fear, but in a safe environment.

Sofie Hagen and Dr Shaw have teamed up for a new true crime podcast with a twist

However, the expert does admit to having one major issue with true crime – how sensationalised it is.

She added: “Confession: I hate true crime.

“It’s probably in the same way that I expect doctors hate medical shows. I understand the fascination – I am a criminal psychologist, after all – but it’s often explored in a sensationalist and speculative way; it often doesn’t explore the research.

“The problem this creates is that it perpetuates misconceptions: it’s not always because they had an abusive childhood, it’s not always the mother. As interesting as guessing is, I prefer research and science.”

If you feel similarly, then you’ll probably want to check out Bad People.

The podcast description reads: “Over the podcast series, episodes will explore the relationship between fantasies and criminal acts, false memories and false confessions, the mental gymnastics of corporate psychopaths, and the many reasons why people commit violent crimes.

“The podcast will venture into dark and complex subjects, often little discussed and considered taboo, using real criminal cases and debunking misconceptions about criminology.”

You can listen to Bad People here.





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