Attracted but unsatisfied: the effects of sensational content on television consumption choices

This paper investigates experimentally the effects of sensational content on viewing choices and satisfaction in television consumption. We find that the presence of verbal violence in one program causes subjects to watch more of that program. However, subjects do not experience higher satisfaction with the program. In addition, they report lower satisfaction with the overall viewing experience. These findings are robust to the use of different program types for the experimental manipulation. Overall, the results pose a challenge to the use of audience figures as a measure of enjoyment or satisfaction.