Media Marathoning and Health Coping |
| |
| Authors: | Lisa Glebatis Perks |
| |
| Institution: | Lisa Glebatis Perks (PhD, University of Texas at Austin) is Associate Professor of Communication and Media at Merrimack College., Her research analyzes audience reception processes, new media engagement patterns, and media representations of marginalized groups |
| |
| Abstract: | This study uses Grounded Theory to analyze interviews with a dozen individuals who media marathoned while going through a health struggle. The analysis addresses five major themes: engaging in escapism that enables emotional and avoidance coping, regulating cognitive expenditure by embracing challenging or comforting content, being still to heal the body, reducing emotional and cognitive strain by engaging a continuous narrative, and tapering from the marathon when feeling better. Findings suggest that media marathoning can offer beneficial cognitive, emotional, and physical regulatory opportunities for those dealing with health struggles. Furthermore, media marathoning when dealing with a health concern is a strategic and active coping strategy that has potential health benefits. |
| |
| Keywords: | Binge-Watching Escapism Media Marathoning Media-Related Coping Mood Management |
|
|
