The reasons why videos on sharing platforms are so watched and searched for

Videos are one of the most popular and engaging forms of online content, especially on sharing platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others. According to Statista, online video usage in the United States is expected to reach 259.2 million users by 2023, up from 228.8 million in 2018. But what are the reasons why videos on sharing platforms are so watched and searched for? Here are some possible explanations:

• Entertainment. One of the main reasons why people watch and search for videos online is to be entertained. Videos can provide amusement, laughter, excitement, or inspiration for viewers who want to have fun, relax, or escape from their daily routine. Videos can also cater to different tastes, preferences, and moods of viewers, as they can choose from a wide variety of genres, formats, styles, and topics. For example, YouTube has over 50 categories of videos, ranging from comedy to education to music to sports.
• Information. Another reason why people watch and search for videos online is to get information. Videos can provide knowledge, facts, data, or insights on various subjects that viewers are interested in or curious about. Videos can also help viewers learn new skills, solve problems, or understand how things work. Videos can also be more effective than other forms of online content in conveying information, as they can use visuals, sounds, animations, or demonstrations to illustrate complex or abstract concepts. For example, TechSmith found that the two main reasons people keep watching a video are a genuine interest in a topic and relatable content.
• Socialization. A third reason why people watch and search for videos online is to socialize. Videos can help viewers connect with other people who share similar passions, experiences, or opinions. Videos can also foster communication, interaction, and feedback among viewers and video creators through comments, likes, shares, or messages. Videos can also influence viewers’ attitudes, behaviors, or decisions based on social proof, recommendations, or testimonials from other people. For example, ResearchGate found that one of the benefits of watching online videos is getting interaction and feedback from other users who are interested in learning games.
• Expression. A fourth reason why people watch and search for videos online is to express themselves. Videos can help viewers showcase their talents, creativity, or personality to the world. Videos can also help viewers share their message, story, or perspective with others who may relate to or benefit from it. Videos can also help viewers support a cause, advocate a change, or challenge a norm that they care about. Videos can also help viewers achieve recognition, appreciation, or reward for their work. For example, Supercool Creative Agency found that one of the reasons why people watch online videos is to be inspired by other people’s creations.

Conclusion

Videos on sharing platforms are so watched and searched for because they offer various benefits for viewers who want to be entertained, informed, socialized, or expressed. Videos can also appeal to different audiences who have different interests, needs, or goals. Videos can also leverage different features that make them more attractive, accessible, or engaging than other forms of online content.