Psychologists have raised concerns about viewers who enjoy the Netflix series “Monsters: The Ed Gein Story.” Learn why experts believe it may reveal hidden trauma and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Why You Should Be Cautious if You Enjoy “Monsters: The Ed Gein Story” on Netflix
If you found yourself glued to Netflix’s Monsters: The Ed Gein Story and enjoying the chilling drama, you might want to pause and consider an expert’s warning.
Released on October 3, this new series, created by Ryan Murphy, dives deep into the real-life horrors of infamous serial killer Ed Gein. Portrayed by Charlie Hunnam, Gein’s gruesome crimes have sparked intense conversations among true crime fans and Netflix bingers alike. But is it really just entertainment, or does it say something more about you?
The Real-Life Horror Behind the Story
In the 1950s, Ed Gein committed horrifying crimes that shocked the nation. Known as the “Butcher of Plainfield,” Gein murdered two women and created a “house of horrors” from body parts he dug up from graves. Police discovered his grotesque collection when they investigated the disappearance of Bernice Worden in 1957. What they found was chilling—her decapitated body hanging from the ceiling. Further searches revealed that Gein had crafted furniture and clothes from human skin, and even used skulls as bowls.
This brutal story was the basis for Netflix’s Monsters: The Ed Gein Story, which vividly portrays these horrific events. But for many, the show’s disturbing details are more than just captivating—they’re strangely appealing.
Experts Issue a Warning
Dr. Thema Bryant, a well-known mental health specialist, shared an important warning about the type of content that some people enjoy watching. Speaking on The Mel Robbins Podcast, Dr. Bryant explained, “If your idea of relaxing before bed is watching crime dramas like Law and Order, I’d encourage you to reflect on why violence or trauma feels soothing.”
The expert points out that for some, experiencing high levels of stress or trauma in their past might make them seek out content that mirrors those emotions, as it feels familiar—even comforting. For those individuals, a show like The Ed Gein Story could tap into their past struggles in a way they don’t consciously realize.
Dr. Bryant added, “Many people mistake peace for boredom. For them, peace feels uncomfortable because it’s unfamiliar. They may lean into that discomfort, but that doesn’t mean it’s healthy.”
The Psychology of True Crime
This perspective was further backed by Dr. Jeglic, a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, who noted that people with a history of trauma might gravitate toward true crime. “It could be that they’re trying to relive those traumatic experiences in a controlled environment,” said Dr. Jeglic. “It’s a way of re-experiencing their trauma but in a place where they have more control over the situation.”
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While The Ed Gein Story is certainly a captivating series for true crime enthusiasts, the psychology behind why some viewers enjoy such dark content may be more concerning than we realize.
The Impact of True Crime on Viewers
True crime content has exploded in popularity over the last decade, with Netflix, podcasts, and documentaries making it easier than ever to access chilling real-life stories. While many viewers simply enjoy the mystery or thrill, others may find themselves becoming obsessed with the details of these dark events. This might lead to unhealthy habits or the desensitization to violence and trauma.
As Dr. Bryant mentioned, leaning into trauma for comfort could be a sign of deeper unresolved issues. If you find yourself constantly drawn to disturbing content, it might be worth exploring why you are so fascinated by it—and whether it’s a healthy coping mechanism.
Conclusion: Should You Keep Watching?
If you’re enjoying The Ed Gein Story or other true crime shows, it’s essential to ask yourself what draws you to them. While it’s perfectly okay to indulge in this type of content in moderation, it’s also important to stay aware of its potential psychological impact.
If you feel that watching such content is helping you avoid your own emotions or is becoming too consuming, it may be time to rethink your choices. Just because something is entertaining doesn’t mean it’s beneficial for your mental health.
