Pleasure in Paradox: The Allure of Fear and Fiction

This chapter examines the intriguing relationship between negative experiences and enjoyment within fictional contexts, highlighting how stories create a secure environment for exploring fear. It discusses the repeated exposure to tension in children's storytelling and adults' engagement with darker themes as tools for mental preparation. Additionally, the chapter explores the complexities of play, self-harm, and the moral intricacies of self-punishment, offering insights into the psychological motivations behind these behaviors.