Introduction
Why do horror movies scare me so much but I keep watching them? Although I was taught that fiction is, indeed, fiction from a very young age, the fear I experience during these films isn't just a product of my imagination. The psychological and physiological responses that horror movies provoke are complex and compelling. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind the fear, the cathartic value, and the psychological phenomena that keep us hooked.
Understanding the Fear Response in Horror Movies
The fear experienced when watching horror movies is more than just a physical reaction. It's a cognitive process brought about by the fight or flight response, which activates the release of endorphins and increases heart rate. This response helps us to better cope with real-life threats and can even offer a sense of safety in an otherwise scary world.
Psychological and Physiological Aspects
When fear is induced through a horror movie, our brain perceives the threat, even if it's just on screen. This triggers the release of endorphins, causing our heart rate to soar and heightening our senses. This is why a horror movie can lead to a more elevated heart rate compared to other genres like comedy or action.
The process is similar to what happens when we experience real-life fears. During a horror movie, our body goes through a fight or flight response, which prepares us to either confront the threat or flee. However, the real threat is just cinematic, reinforcing our ability to handle real-life situations when they arise.
The Role of Dreamscapes and Nightmares
Occasionally, the fear experienced can blend with our subconscious, manifesting in nightmares where a dear friend or family member is killed or where we are in danger of being murdered before waking up. These nightmares, while frightening, are not a direct result of the screen but rather a fusion of memories, emotions, and our subconscious fears.
Catharsis Through Horror Movies
Horror movies serve as a safe space for us to experience and release our fears. Just as roller coasters provide a temporary escape from everyday reality, horror movies offer a similar cathartic experience. We can tremble and scream, allowing us to purge some of our deepest fears in a controlled and safe environment.
The safe space provided by horror movies allows us to confront and process our fears without the actual danger. This is particularly true in today's world, where we are often inundated with scary news and uncertain futures. Watching a horror movie can help us to find a moment of relief and closure that might be missing in our everyday lives.
Resolving Cognitive Dissonance Through Horror Stories
Many people live in a state of cognitive dissonance, where they believe something but also wonder if it is true. Horror movies offer a resolution to these doubts, providing a dramatic and fulfilling experience that contrasts with the uncertainty of real life. In a sense, they offer a sense of stability and closure that can be deeply satisfying.
For example, vampires in horror movies might be rooted in historical and cultural contexts, such as syphilis and recent births. Additionally, horror movies can portray a heightened state of life that may reflect deeper societal and emotional truths. For instance, the 1982 movie E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial reinforced the idea that children can take care of themselves, affirming the changes happening in society with the increasing number of working mothers.
A Story is a Promise
As William Johnson posits, A Story is a Promise suggests that storytelling is more than just entertainment. It promises a resolution, a safe space to explore our fears, and a sense of emotional fulfillment. Horror movies, in particular, offer a structured narrative that provides a cathartic experience, allowing us to confront and process our fears in a controlled manner.
In conclusion, the fear and fascination with horror movies are deeply rooted in human psychology and the fight or flight response. They serve as a safe space to explore and resolve our fears, offering a sense of catharsis and emotional fulfillment. So, the next time you find yourself screaming and shaking during a horror movie, remember that you're not alone, and you're indulging in a timeless tradition of confronting our deepest fears in a controlled environment.