Round Table China Why do we love to be scared?
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Oct 31, 2025 Why do we seek out fear? The show delves into how horror can actually serve as a form of self-care and anxiety relief. Discover the fascinating science behind horror's links to tranquility, from physiological thrills to morbid curiosity. The hosts share their personal movie picks and explore how different audience types engage with fear. They also discuss how horror functions as a distraction, offering emotional practice that helps build confidence. It’s a deep dive into the surprising benefits of embracing our fears!
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Safe Thrills Reframe Danger As Excitement
- Controlled fear gives us the physiological rush of danger without real risk, letting the brain reframe threat as thrill.
- This decoupling explains why people willingly choose scary films or extreme sports to feel alive.
Three Motivations For Seeking Fear
- Colton Scrivener's study grouped horror fans into adrenaline junkies, white knucklers, and dark coppers with distinct motivations.
- These categories reveal that people seek fear for physical rush, mastery over fear, or perspective on real-world safety.
Fear Then Endorphins Create An Afterglow
- Fear triggers adrenaline and typical fight-or-flight physiology, followed by an endorphin surge that soothes the body.
- The afterglow of endorphins helps explain the pleasurable relief and sense of accomplishment after facing fear.
