Reruns are taking over the networks this holiday season, and streaming services like Netflix and Hulu make big money by sharing full seasons of old shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and 7^th Heaven.

Why do people like to spend hours watching reruns? Why do people still tune in to watch an episode of one of their new favorite shows that aired just three months ago?

There is a reason behind that behavior apparently.

The Huffington Post shared the results of a new scientific study earlier this week, and it revealed the reason people like to watch reruns.

Neel Burton, author of Heaven and Hell: The Psychology of the Emotions, said:

“There are a great deal of things that we do not at all feel compelled to re-watch or re-read, particularly in a world in which we have access to virtually limitless entertainment and cultural material. The things that we do feel compelled to re-watch or re-read are those that provide us with either comfort or perspective. Our everyday is humdrum, often even absurd. Nostalgia can lend us much-needed context, perspective and direction, reminding and reassuring us that our life is not as banal as it may seem. It also tells us that there have been — and will once again be — meaningful moments and experiences.”

So next time you sit down to watch a binge fest of Friends on Netflix or watch that episode that aired just last month again, remember it is helping you feel better?

Are you a rerun watcher? Is this study right on track? Tell us what you think.