Ever wonder how a person can crave to rewatch a movie even though they are by no means a stranger to it? Comfort movies, regardless of their genre of origin, are deeply tied to our brain’s love for nostalgia, and prove to be a helpful insight for how we deal with stress for the future.

   According to The OLu MUSE, “When faced with the uncertainty of life and the inevitable changes that come with time, comfort movies are seen as a constant that can be trusted to deliver.” In times of hardship, these works can be relied on as a coping mechanism. The article continued, “Having watched their favorite movie or show dozens of times already, an individual doesn’t have to experience the anxiety of wondering what will happen to their beloved characters. Instead, they feel a sense of control they may lack in their personal lives” (olumuse.org). How does this translate to a high school population? Well, these four years are without a doubt pivotal for students; they influence and can even determine one’s future plans. It’s understandable that some are overwhelmed by their perceived importance. In order to escape from fears and uncertainties, the predictive nature of a comfort movie is quite appealing.

   This sensation is known to help individuals re-center their emotional state. According to Patient,  “Researchers Cristel Russell and Sidney Levy have actually named the calming feeling of re-watching movies as ‘experiential control,’ which provides ‘emotional regulation.’ To put it simply, this means, because you know the ending already, you also know how it’s going to make you feel” (patient.info). Life is unpredictable, and some calm themselves by revisiting a tale in which they already know the twists and turns. In avoiding unfamiliarity, these people are able to find peace of mind.

   Television shows can provide a similar emotional regeneration. School is not for the weak-minded; there is an emotional drain that accompanies being in such a stimulating environment. According to TIME Magazine, “Rewatching television shows can restore some of that energy, [University of Houston Psychology Professor Jaye] Derrick says, because it’s a form of taking a break from making decisions … Perhaps you like the characters or you like the emotional experience you had when watching the show the first time. By rewatching the show, ‘you can just sit back and enjoy the ride,’ she says” (time.com).