# University of Graz true crime consumption research

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-graz-true-crime-consumption-research
> Updated: 2026-08-27T18:00:09.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Research from the University of Graz has examined the psychological drivers and consumption patterns of true crime media. A study involving approximately 600 participants suggests that consumption is largely motivated by ‘morbid curiosity’ and a desire to understand the psychology of perpetrators, a goal cited by 75 percent of respondents.

Findings indicate that individuals often use these stories to assess personal risks or to resolve feelings of uncertainty. The research also highlighted a significant gender gap in consumption habits, noting that women spend an average of eight hours per week on true crime media compared to approximately one hour for men. 

Additionally, brain imaging via MRI of frequent listeners showed increased connectivity in brain regions associated with empathy, moral judgment, emotional regulation, and the processing of new information. Researchers suggest that engaging with this content may function as a mechanism for resolving uncertainty.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: University of Graz study examines true crime consumption habits

A University of Graz study finds women consume significantly more true crime content than men, often to understand criminal psychology and manage uncertainty.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-graz-study-examines-true-crime-consumption-habits

### 2026-08-10: True crime media consumption driven by morbid curiosity

Research suggests true crime fans consume media to satisfy ‘morbid curiosity’ and better assess personal risks, though extreme cases may distort actual perceptions of danger.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/true-crime-media-consumption-driven-by-morbid-curiosity

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Cite as: University of Graz true crime consumption research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-graz-true-crime-consumption-research