24.10.2024.
As Halloween approaches, the season for spooky thrills begins. From haunted houses to terrifying films, it seems like everyone is ready to embrace the fear. But why do so many people enjoy seeking out these frights, particularly during Halloween?
The connection between Halloween and horror is rooted in the holiday’s very nature — a time to confront the eerie and the unknown. People love to immerse themselves in the world of the supernatural, and for many, it’s a chance to engage with horror in a fun, controlled environment. This festive setting makes fear feel safer and thus more enjoyable.
Why do we seek out horror
Horror is designed to elicit strong emotional responses.
Watching a scary movie or visiting a haunted house triggers our fight-or-flight response, flooding our system with adrenaline.
This heightened state can be both thrilling and enjoyable for some, as it releases a rush of energy.
Experts point out three main reasons why some people love consuming horror content:
Stimulation: Horror movies and experiences stimulate us physically and mentally, creating a mixture of fear and excitement.
Novel experiences: Horror allows us to explore alternate realities, such as zombie apocalypses or supernatural hauntings, that we would never encounter in real life.
Curiosity about the dark side: Many are fascinated by the darker aspects of the human psyche, and horror offers a safe way to explore it without real-world consequences.
Psychological safety during fright
Research suggests that to enjoy horror, we need to feel psychologically safe. Whether watching a movie or walking through a haunted house, we derive pleasure from the fear when we know it’s not real. Halloween’s playful, community-focused setting enhances this psychological safety, making it easier to enjoy the scares.
Who loves horror the most?
Personality plays a significant role in how much people enjoy horror. Those who seek excitement and thrill, known as sensation seekers, are the most likely to be drawn to horror.
Additionally, people who are open to new experiences and less empathetic are more likely to enjoy horror films, as they can detach themselves from the fear and focus on the excitement.
The benefits of watching horror
Aside from the adrenaline rush, watching horror can have surprising benefits, especially when shared with others. Horror films can create a sense of social bonding as groups experience heightened emotions together, releasing oxytocin — the “bonding” hormone. Once the fear subsides, the release of endorphins leaves many feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Research suggests that consuming horror (e.g., watching a horror movie or visiting a horror theme park) together with a date may even facilitate feelings of romance. Why? Co-experiencing horror (like a non-stop pounding heart evoked by scary scenes) can add to our excitement toward each other.
Halloween provides the perfect backdrop for these emotions, allowing people to bond over shared frights and embrace their adventurous side.
SOURCE
Yang, H., & Zhang, K., The Psychology Behind Why We Love (or Hate) Horror
Why Do Some People Enjoy Horror Movies?, Nature.com
Why Some People Love Horror Movies, The Scientist
