Psychology explains people who love true crime may have less to do with violence than you think, and more to do with understanding dangerous people, anticipating threats and managing fear

True crime's appeal stems from understanding dangerous minds and morbid curiosity. Defensive vigilance and learning about potential threats also drive consumption. Fear of crime can paradoxically increase engagement with these stories. Excitement and the appeal of real events contribute to the genre's popularity. Research challenges the assumption that true crime fans are solely interested in violence.