Explore why some people enjoy being scared, the positive effects of fear on mental health, and the physical reactions to fear. Discover the benefits of fear, finding the balance between fear and safety, and how fear can contribute to personal growth.
Engaging in controlled fear or being exposed to moderate fear levels can have positive effects on mental health.
Fear is an evolutionary response to potential danger that helps humans react quickly to survive.
Deep dives
Why Do Humans Enjoy Being Scared?
Mark Anderson, co-director of the Recreational Fear Lab, discusses why humans enjoy being scared. Through scientific studies, they found that moderate fear levels in experiences such as haunted attractions and roller coasters result in the highest enjoyment ratings. Humans are not fond of situations drastically different from their norm, but they do enjoy those that are slightly different, which stimulates curiosity and enhances learning.
Understanding the Basics of Fear
Fear is an emotion that humans share with other animals, and it serves as an evolutionary response to potential danger. The feeling of fear is triggered by threatening situations and helps humans react quickly in order to survive. Fear can manifest not only in the brain but also in physical responses such as increased heart rate, dilation of pupils, and sweating. These bodily reactions prepare the individual to either fight or flee from the potential danger.
Beneficial Aspects of Controlled Fear
Engaging in controlled fear or being exposed to moderate fear levels can have positive effects. The recreational fear experienced in situations like Halloween or watching horror movies allows individuals to learn how to cope with fear and explore new sensations. Research suggests that a mild to moderate amount of fear can be beneficial for both children and adults, enhancing their ability to handle scary situations in life. Engaging in risky play and experiencing recreational fear can help children become less anxious and more resilient.
Why do some people like haunted houses and scary movies? What is fear? Why do humans have fear! Why do we get goosebumps, blink a lot and scream when we’re scared? Why are some of us afraid of what’s in our closet or under the bed at night?
We look at fear, and the fun side of fear with Marc Andersen, who co-directs the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University in Denmark. He studied fear and play and how they intersect. Turns out, moderate and controlled fear can actually have benefits to our mental health!