Why do we enjoy watching horror movies? Science explains it
Discover why we love terror on Halloween: Science reveals how fear and stress hormones can be pleasurable for our brain....Author: Patricia Alegsa
31-10-2024 11:26
- The Pleasure of Fear
- The Science Behind Fear
- Fear as a Form of Escape
- Introspection and Self-Knowledge
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The Pleasure of Fear
Halloween, known as the scariest night of the year, transforms fear into a delight sought by many. In a normal context, we associate fear with the negative, but during these festivities, it becomes an exciting and desired experience.
Spooky decorations and horror movies are welcomed with enthusiasm, and some even plan to watch horror films to celebrate. But what makes fear so appealing? Science provides some intriguing answers.
A study conducted by the Department of Psychology at Edith Cowan University in Australia and Arizona State University in the United States has identified four main reasons why our brain enjoys fear.
The Science Behind Fear
A study conducted by the Department of Psychology at Edith Cowan University in Australia and Arizona State University in the United States has identified four main reasons why our brain enjoys fear.
According to researchers Shane Rogers, Shannon Muir, and Coltan Scrivner, activities such as watching horror movies, participating in spooky escape rooms, or listening to terrifying stories provoke a unique emotional response.
The emotions of fear and excitement often intertwine, releasing stress hormones that trigger a series of physical responses such as increased heart rate and muscle tension.
These responses can be pleasurable for some people, especially those with bolder personalities.
Horror movies are designed to take us on an emotional journey similar to a roller coaster, with moments of intense fear followed by relief. This dynamic allows the body to experience a cycle of tension and relaxation, which can be addictive.
Fear as a Form of Escape
Horror movies are designed to take us on an emotional journey similar to a roller coaster, with moments of intense fear followed by relief. This dynamic allows the body to experience a cycle of tension and relaxation, which can be addictive.
Iconic films like "It" and "Jaws" exemplify this technique, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they alternate between tension and calm.
Moreover, fear provides a safe way to explore terrifying scenarios and satisfy our morbid curiosity without the risk of experiencing them in real life.
Horror movies can also serve as a mirror for our fears and personal traumas, fostering introspection about our insecurities. By observing how we react to terrifying situations, we can learn more about our emotional limits.
Introspection and Self-Knowledge
Horror movies can also serve as a mirror for our fears and personal traumas, fostering introspection about our insecurities. By observing how we react to terrifying situations, we can learn more about our emotional limits.
During the coronavirus pandemic, an additional study by Professor Coltan Scrivner found that people who regularly watched horror movies experienced less psychological distress compared to those who did not.
This suggests that facing fear in a controlled environment can strengthen our emotional resilience and help us cope with stress in real life.
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