Why Do Some People Like Scary Movies?

See transcript of this video at bottom of page.

The Thrill of Scary Movies

As Halloween approaches, we want to explore a fascinating question: Why do people enjoy watching scary movies?

Reasons Some People Like Scary Movies

1. The Adrenaline Rush

One of the most obvious reasons people are drawn to scary movies is the rush of adrenaline they provide. Much like the thrill of a roller coaster ride or an extreme sport, the horror genre triggers a cascade of neurochemical reactions in our brains. For some, this adrenaline rush makes them feel more alive, in control, and vital. The desire for this experience is understandable, as long as it's done safely.

2. Experimenting with Control

Scary movies offer an opportunity to experiment with a sense of control. By subjecting themselves to something frightening, viewers challenge their comfort zones while maintaining the awareness that it's all fiction. This allows them to confront their fears without real-life consequences.

This form of exposure helps individuals build their capacity to cope with fear and uncertainty in reality. Watching a scary movie can boost one's self-confidence. When we feel more confident, we might take real-life risks that pay off in a positive way. This might include asking for a raise at work or addressing concerns in a relationship. It's a way to explore and extend one's sense of control over the anxieties of life.

3. Practicing Self-Soothing

Scary movies also provide an opportunity to practice self-soothing. Viewers are exposed to intense fear, but they know they are ultimately safe. This contrast between their own safety and the peril of the characters allows them to hone their self-soothing skills. It becomes a lesson in managing anxiety, reminding themselves that the horror on the screen is not real and that they are secure.

4. Catharsis Through Fear

Catharsis, originally coined by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, refers to the emotional release that occurs when we witness intense experiences in a controlled environment. Scary movies allow us to confront our deepest fears and anxieties in a safe setting. As the tension builds and the fear escalates, we find ourselves on an emotional rollercoaster that eventually subsides, providing a sense of relief and release. This cathartic process can be therapeutic for some, as it allows us to temporarily unload the stresses and anxieties of daily life.

5. A Window into the Human Psyche

Scary movies often delve into the darkest aspects of human nature. They present us with complex and often terrifying characters and scenarios. These films become an exploration of our own human psyche, helping us understand the depths of our fears, desires, and the boundaries of morality. Watching these stories can be both unsettling and intellectually stimulating, offering an opportunity to reflect on human behavior and the consequences of our actions. It can be a form of introspection, prompting viewers to consider their own values.

6. Shared Experiences

Watching a scary movie with friends or loved ones can be a bonding experience. The shared thrill, suspense, and adrenaline can create a strong sense of togetherness. In these moments, we can connect with others on an emotional level. The collective experience can be a powerful social activity. For some, it's a way to strengthen relationships and build lasting memories, enhancing the joy of watching scary movies.

7. Establishing Personal Limits

Scary movies also allow people to explore their personal boundaries with fear. While some people love the most extreme horror films, others may prefer psychological thrillers. The process of selecting a movie that aligns with one's comfort level and then pushing those boundaries can be empowering. It reflects the importance of setting limits and respecting one's emotional well-being.

Scary Movies Aren't For Everyone

Our reactions to fear and excitement are unique to each of us. Ultimately, the appreciation of scary movies varies widely from person to person. Some people thrive on the adrenaline, while others may find it distressing. It's essential to respect and understand that these preferences are diverse and personal. There is no one-size-fits-all explanation for why people enjoy or dislike scary movies. This diversity in tastes is a testament to the richness of human experience.

Happy Halloween!

The fascination with scary movies stems from the multifaceted experience they offer. It's a blend of thrill-seeking, psychological experimentation, and the chance to practice self-soothing. For some, this genre serves as a way to confront and manage fear, while for others, it's simply an exhilarating experience. The important thing is that everyone's preferences are valid, and there's no right or wrong way to enjoy entertainment.

​Transcript:

Hey, I’m Laurel, I’m a licensed therapist, and the other day someone asked me a great question. Why do people like scary movies? We’re coming up on Halloween, so I thought it was a cool question to answer.

There are a lot of reasons why people like scary movies, but I want to talk about two in particular.  One is the most obvious: some people really love a rush of adrenaline. It brings up all these neurochemical reactions, similar to riding on a roller coaster or doing an extreme sport. Some people just love that rush. It makes him feel alive, it makes them feel in control, and it gives them a sense of vitality that feels really good. That makes total sense. We’re not gonna judge how people go about getting that rush as long as they’re being safe.
 
The other [reason] is psychologically more interesting: scary movies give people an opportunity to experiment with a sense of control. You expose yourself to something that’s scary, whether it’s a scary slasher film or a really suspenseful [movie] with jump scares, you’re pushing up against that comfort zone, but you also know it’s different than real life. You know that “yes this thing is scary, but I can handle it because it’s not real.” By doing that, you’re building your capacity for handling scary things in real life. It’s kind of an in-vitro exposure to something that is challenging. You may [subconsciously] be thinking “well, I watched this scary movie, maybe I can ask my boss for a raise, or tell my partner that I don’t like something” or whatever it is. Engaging with that experiment around control is what drives a lot of people to love scary movies.
 
It also, as a benefit, gives you the opportunity to practice self soothing. How do you calm yourself, how do you resource yourself, how do you remind yourself that this isn’t real? Within this experiment with control is the reality that you are safer than the people in the movie, so it gives you a sense of safety because you’re not the one being stalked by a crazy chainsaw guy or whatever it is.
 
All of these together make a lot of sense that some people love scary movies, and also why some people just do not. Either way is okay.
 
Happy Halloween! If you’ve got questions you’d love to ask a therapist, feel free to send them in.