The Fear of Enjoyment: Why You Might Avoid New Movies
Have you ever noticed yourself hesitating to watch a new movie because you don't want to like it? This phenomenon, which can be described as the fear of enjoyment, is a common experience for many movie enthusiasts. In fact, it is often a sign of selectivity of taste, reflecting the nuanced understanding we develop about our preferences over time.
The Selectivity of Taste
The selectivity of taste is a natural aspect of human experience. As we navigate the vast landscape of movies, we develop a set of criteria for what we enjoy and what we find less appealing. This process is heightened by the subjective nature of cinematic experience, where each film can vary greatly in quality and appeal. In many cases, we have already encountered several similar films that did not meet our standards or were not enjoyable, leading us to become more selective in our choices.
Questioning the value of an experience we suspect will be unpleasant or a waste of time is not a sign of disinterest but rather a manifestation of discernment. As we evolve, we learn to separate the wheat from the chaff, recognizing the movies that align with our tastes and the ones that do not.
Fear of Enjoyment: Hederophobia
Have you ever heard of hederophobia? This term, while not officially recognized in psychological literature, is coined to describe the fear of enjoyment. It represents the internal struggle of not wanting to like a new movie because you are afraid you might. This fear can stem from a variety of factors, such as past disappointments or a desire to preserve high standards.
The key difference between aversions, which are strong dislikes, and the fear of enjoyment lies in the intent. Aversion implies a clear aversion to something, like hating broccoli or a particular genre of movies. In contrast, the fear of enjoyment is more about the apprehension of a potential outcome rather than an inherent dislike. It is a psychological barrier that prevents you from fully embracing an experience because you are worried about not enjoying it.
Practical Applications: Discernment in Movie Selection
Given the selectivity of taste, it is reasonable to develop a set of criteria for choosing movies. Some genres, like romantic comedies or action movies involving assassins, might not align with your personal tastes. Conversely, when faced with a new movie in a genre you typically avoid, you can still give it a chance if it has received positive reviews. For example, the movie Bridesmaids received widespread praise for its humor and relatable characters, leading you to give it a try despite your initial hesitations.
The principle of discernment should also guide your decision on popular movies. If a movie is popular but does not interest you, there is no need to force yourself to watch it. Personal enjoyment is the ultimate goal, and prioritizing movies that align with your interests will enhance your overall experience and satisfaction.
Conclusion
The fear of enjoyment, or hederophobia, is a natural aspect of the human experience of choosing what to watch. By developing discernment and selecting movies that align with your personal taste, you can maintain a joyous and fulfilling cinematic experience without the undue stress of potential disappointment.
Content Summary for SEO
This article delves into the phenomenon of avoiding movies because of a fear of enjoyment, discussing the variability of taste and the importance of discernment. Examples and practical applications are provided to help readers make informed movie selections.