True crime stories have never been more popular than they are now, so much so that the cultural arts microscope is looking for the ability to tell murders entertainingly.
The shelves in bookstores and the list of streaming options are filled with content from this genre. But what is the reason for this obsession with crime? Here we tell you all the details about this trend.
The psychology behind true crime stories: Why are we so obsessed?
True crime stories are attractive, especially for those passionate about criminology and law. In this context, countless podcasts, series, documentaries, and books related to this category have emerged.
Il free accessibility of these files has encouraged the adoption of this trend, allowing more people to arouse their curiosity. Viewers have several reasons to follow these stories:
- Curiosity about the mental conditions and motivation of criminals drives their interest;
- Concerns regarding justice and the enforcement of laws are central to their focus;
- Solving mysteries or connecting them to real-life scenarios excites them.
Psychologists suggest that the attraction to these sensational stories is because murder, rape, and robbery have played a leading role in the real world.
It is natural for humans to want to be aware of crimes, to test their instincts, to find out who, when, where, and why. This information helps them understand criminals’ motivations and protect themselves in the future.
True crime stories also serve an educational purpose, providing insights into the criminal mind and the justice system, thereby helping to prevent future crimes.
The best true crime stories, podcasts, and shows you should watch
In 2025, podcasts about murderers and their true crimes are still one of the most addictive topics out there. Our fascination with mystery and fear has shaped a society where podcasts hold significant power.
These platforms have also influenced laws and freed the wrongly accused. They have also brought closure to unsolved cases, allowing missing individuals to finally rest in peace.
We advise you to consider these five options the next time you want to watch a true crime story. Let’s see!
The crimes of binge-eating
“Crimes Compulsive” is an addictive anthology docuseries that has investigated absorbing cases. For example, in the last season, “Night Shift,” the story of a murderous nurse from the United States was told.
Likewise, in the eighth season, known as “Lady Mafia,” Sara King and Anna Delvey’s movements are narrated. Both take us to the underworld of a glorified loan shark and the queen of deception.
Is the world wrong, or is it drowning in a pool of other people’s green millions? This is undoubtedly a very colorful series that encourages binge-watching.
The valley of bones
In 1987, a young woman, Michelle Schofield, was found dead. A couple of years later, her partner, Leo, was found guilty of murder. During the investigation, fingerprints of an individual with a rather dirty history, including robberies and assaults, were also found.
The story is summarized in just nine episodes, where Gilbert and Kelsey try to fight for justice. Meanwhile, some discoveries link this murder to a serial killer.
Bear Creek
In 1985, specifically in Bear Brook State Park, three young people playing in the area found a barrel. Without looking at its contents, they decided to kick it to knock it over; 15 years later, a second barrel appears…
What is inside unleashes a story that leads to the investigation of four bodies. It is about the death of a woman and three girls, but who are they? Who killed them and why?
Jason Moon, a radio host, has handled the unsolved case for years and, fortunately, discovers the real culprit.
The boy in the water
Il tragedy of a three-year-old boy seemed to be a closed case for the authorities. Lachlan Jones ran away from home, jumped a fence, fell, and drowned in the town’s sewage.
However, many questions have arisen in Melanie Reid’s exciting investigations over the years! Is it possible that the little boy could have traveled so far without leaving his mark?
The journalist relentlessly investigated forensic evidence, meticulously reviewed witness statements, and questioned the police’s behavior. Thanks to her unstoppable fight, she reopened the case and conducted a more complete forensic investigation.
The Apology Line
In the early 1980s, a phone number was circulated throughout New York, allowing many people to reveal their secrets. Writing to this contact became fashionable, going from being a “social experiment” to coming to life.
It took more than 15 years to be discovered. Allan Bridge (Mr. Apology) collected that information; however, Marissa is responsible for revealing the meaning of keeping these secrets and their price.
Fact vs. fiction: how true crime stories blur the lines
“Based on a true story” is a phrase that, for many viewers, guarantees quality. As for the narrative, that “fact” attracts because of its morbidity. In contrast, Fiction’s content is unreal, making falling into a state of attraction more difficult.
Regardless of the case, being a faithful follower of macabre stories does not mean having criminal inclinations. However, studies indicate that an excess of this type of content can affect mental health.
While it’s true that experiencing constant anxiety, being alert to any noise, and feeling fear even when at home are warning signs of these stories, it’s also important to note that not everyone will be affected in this way.
For some, these stories can generate fascination and entertainment without causing adverse effects. When constant changes in emotions, actions, and decisions that have never been seen before are evident, it is a sign that the person is affected.
In addition, these contents generate the voyeur effect; even if these stories are heartbreaking, it is impossible to leave them. Crimes and their threats arouse curiosity and create more emotions during their development.
The ethical dilemma: Is it morally acceptable to profit from real-life tragedies?
Many researchers of digital platforms have emphasized Internet trolling, malicious activities, and ethical concerns of popular topics.
They conclude that creating content based on non-fictional real crimes is a great source of entertainment. So far, their research points to three reasons why people are attracted to this genre:
- The “mystery” factor is appealing. Any show centered on a mystery generates high popularity ratings. True crime makes viewers feel like they are part of the story as it unfolds;
- Most people enjoy the thrill of watching a case unfold, feeling like they are part of the investigation from the comfort of their armchairs;
- White women are the group most attracted to this category. They may feel anxious and vulnerable when faced with the threat. So, they watch these stories to be better prepared if they experience something similar.
There are many opportunities to see these stories, from TV shows and movies to podcasts, YouTube, and TikTok. However, this trend raises many questions about the ethics of these real crimes.
An obvious problem in these narratives is the violation of the victim’s consent and privacy. Currently, influencers and some platforms do not require permission to publish content.
Typically, victims’ data is exposed to the public, which is quite overwhelming. Their intimate history and painful experiences are made public without their consent.
The future of true crime stories
The fate of true crime stories through podcasts, docuseries, or books can go even further. Of course, this requires a lot of work, as it requires changing the nature of the narratives produced, published, and marketed.
In this context, it is essential to rethink the concept of “entertainment” and what this type of genre implies. By doing so, the myths supporting the structure can be banished, and more attractive content can be offered.
If you are interested in these stories and do not know where to access them, we recommend reading this article from Insiderbits: The 10 best podcast apps.
