Restorative or detrimental? The complex relationship between binge-watching, self-control, and well-being

In this study, we investigated the role of situational self-control in binge-watching behavior and its subsequent effects on well-being. Although previous researchers have primarily considered self-control a stable trait, we conceptualized it as a depletable and restorable resource that varies across media use episodes. Employing a multimethod field study design that combined usage tracking and experience sampling surveys, we measured self-control levels before and after media use to explore how different viewing modes-binge-watching versus appointment watching-affected self-control and media users' subsequent well-being. The findings showed that self-control prior to media use positively predicted post-use self-control, with no significant differences between binge-watching and non-binge-watching sessions. Session-level binge-watching did not impact self-control after media use neither well-being. However, self-control after media use was correlated with lower well-being. These results highlight the complex interplay between media consumption, self-control, and well-being, highlighting the need for more situational approaches to binge-watching research.