Why you are watching That show you love to hate ?

Why we consume content we hate sometimes? In recent times during my prolific visits on Instagram I noted the algorithm was sending my way a plethora of Pakistani content. Most of which were anti Indian and negative in connotation. I noticed my stress levels going up after 5 minutes on the app., needless to say I quickly exited and even deleted the application for avoidance of any such temptation in time to come.

The next in line in the love to hate genre; the recent Meghan Markel / Sussex appearances are giving stiff competition to the Kardashians. Here I am sitting in Hong Kong not being able to escape the sheer humor (or lack) of it all after I halfheartedly quarter watched a podcast meant to inspire women in business. Subsequently I was bombarded with several shows and parodies made on her. While I would admit that the parodies are far more enjoyable and satisfying to watch and I do not whatsoever attribute them for my dislike for the duchess. I mean I jumped on the ‘I don’t link her’ bus all on my own after watching a little snippet of the Oprah Show she and her husband had done nearly half a decade ago.

The point I am trying to make is that it is often satisfying to indulge in hate and clearly the social media algorithms and content creators have figured that out.

So why are we feeling pleasure in experiencing hatred? The answer is it offers a Dopamine kick to your brain. While dopamine is linked with pleasure and reward, it is also released in response to stressful experiences and in situations involving social conflict and perceived threats. This release can prime the brain for enhanced vigilance much like your morning coffee working beyond its pay scale bringing wakefulness and alertness to your mind.

While looking at hateful content in the middle of your day when you are finding yourself unable to concentrate at the job at hand can be a quick fix, it is fair to guess that this dose of dopamine doesn’t come without its friend cortisol also known as the hormone for stress. Excessive Cortisol in our body is linked to several health conditions such as blood pressure and heart problems. It also goes without saying that an addiction to dopamine coming from negative social situations can promote aggression in a person.

So my friend here is a reminder to look for your daily dose of dopamine from the longer yet more sustainable and healthy routes such as exercise, positive social contact , eating healthy foods, meditation. Just pure selfcare that trumps all the hateful content out there waiting for your views. Have a blissful day you all !