Horror movies have carved a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide, offering a unique and enduring appeal. These films, known for their spine-tingling jump scares, eerie atmospheres, and exploration of the supernatural and psychological realms, captivate viewers with the promise of fear and excitement.
But there’s more to horror movies than meets the eye. Some psychologists suggest that these cinematic frightfests may actually be good for your well-being. Surprising as it may sound, watching scary movies can offer more than just a night of adrenaline-pumping terror; it can have positive effects on your psychological and emotional health.
A Dose of Feel-Good Chemicals
Psychologists have uncovered the fascinating role horror movies play in releasing natural feel-good chemicals in our brains, such as endorphins and dopamine. These neurochemicals are associated with pleasure, reward, and pain relief. Dr. Kristen Knowles, a neuropsychologist at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, explains, “Researchers have found that watching horror can improve pain tolerance due to endorphin production.” So, while you might be gripping the edge of your seat in suspense, your brain is secretly flooding your body with natural painkillers.
Escape from Reality and Stress Relief
For many, horror movies serve as a powerful escape from the stressors of daily life. Brian Bisesi, a data analyst in Minneapolis, highlights how these films can provide relief from stress and anxiety. “For sure, if I was stressed out or anxious, I would be more likely to watch a horror film than any other kind of film,” he notes. Watching a ghost or a killer on the loose offers a welcome diversion from the anxieties of the day-to-day grind.
Brian goes on to explain, “The toughest challenge in my life right now is parenting; it’s really stressful, but watching horror movies really puts my problems into perspective.” By witnessing fictional horrors, he gains a renewed sense of gratitude for his own life. “I can say, ‘Okay, nobody tried to murder me today; I didn’t get possessed by a demon today.’ It sounds silly, but I do feel more grateful for my own life after I watch a horror movie.”
Psychological Resilience in the Face of Fear
Dr. Kristen Knowles sheds light on intriguing studies that suggest horror movie fans may be more psychologically resilient, especially in the face of challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers speculate that frequent exposure to the “emotional exercise” of artificial threats in horror movies contributes to this resilience. “Watching horror films gives us a safe way to explore a very intense emotional experience,” she explains.
The body’s response to fear and suspense, she continues, involves an increase in the production of stress hormones like adrenaline. This heightened state of alertness, coupled with an accelerated heart rate, can be exhilarating, and the release of tension at the end of the film feels almost euphoric.
She concludes, “One theory about why some people enjoy being frightened proposes that the film format makes it possible to safely play with negative emotions. In horror films, the objects of fear are discrete and more simplistic than in real life. Through this safe interaction, we can learn to cope with negative emotions and develop resilience to fear and stress.”
So, the next time you settle in for a horror movie night, remember that you’re not just in for a fright; you’re giving your brain a healthy dose of endorphins, a break from reality, and a valuable lesson in coping with fear. In the world of cinema, fear can be thrilling, empowering, and surprisingly good for your well-being.
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