Mathias Clasen

Mathias Clasen and Marc Andersen, co-directors of the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University, explore why people voluntarily seek fear through horror. They discuss how recreational fear helps people learn to cope with real threats and the intriguing Goldilocks principle of horror, which suggests that moderate fear is most enjoyable. Their research includes studying haunted house visitors to understand fear and enjoyment dynamics and even correlating horror fandom with lower distress during the pandemic. They propose new therapies utilizing controlled fear experiences.

Mathias Clasen, a horror scholar and director of the Recreational Fear Lab, and Heather Berlin, a neuroscientist and authority on fear, dive into why we love being scared. They uncover the psychology behind our fascination with horror, revealing that fear can be both thrilling and pleasurable. The duo also explores how personal experiences shape our reactions to fear, the neurochemistry behind it, and the therapeutic uses of horror. They even share their favorite spooky films, highlighting horror's cultural significance and emotional impact.