Gender Differences in Binge-Watching by Teenagers: A Uses and Gratification Analysis

Abstract

The research was aimed at exploring whether there are gender differences in binge-watching patterns of urban-educated youth of Pakistan. Using the Uses and Gratification approach as the theoretical foundation of the research, the research investigated whether the motivations for binge-watching differed between males and females. The research also analyzed differences between genders on the negative impact of binge-watching. The methodology adopted for the research was the quantitative survey method. The purposive sample selected for the study comprised 300 male and female teenagers (13–19 years) who binge-watch online streamed content. The study’s findings revealed that Entertainment, Escape, and Excitement were the primary motivations of Pakistani teenagers to resort to binge-watching. However, it was found that Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and Social Interaction were more important for females, while Excitement was deemed an important motivation by the males. Findings revealed that Sleep Disorder and Obesity were reported to be more of an issue than Depression and Productivity Issues. Furthermore, male binge-watchers reported a reduction in their Productivity, while female binge-watchers reported a disturbance in their sleeping patterns.