Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Psyche.
1980s was definitely the ultimate decade for horror films!
The 80s is often regarded as the ultimate era for horror movies, and there are several reasons why. Firstly, the practical effects used in those films added a sense of realism and authenticity that still captivates audiences today. From gruesome gore to terrifying creatures, these practical effects brought the horror to life in a way that CGI simply can't replicate. Secondly, the 80s gave birth to iconic horror franchises that have become ingrained in pop culture. Movies like "Friday the 13th," "A Nightmare on Elm Street," and "Halloween" introduced us to unforgettable villains and thrilling storylines that continue to inspire and influence filmmakers today.
The Science: Why Do We Enjoy Horror Movies?
According to these researchers, the consumption of horror is driven by stimulation. Exposing ourselves to terrifying acts, such as stories of demonic possession or alien infestation, can be mentally and physically stimulating. These experiences can evoke both negative emotions, like fear or anxiety, and positive emotions, like excitement or joy. Interestingly, we tend to experience the most positive emotions when something triggers the most negative ones. Horror entertainment also offers a unique experience, like a movies of zombies, aliens, vampires that aren't occur in the real world. Simultaneously, it provides a safe way to explore our curiosity about the darker aspects of humanity through captivating storylines and characters facing the depths of the human condition. Not all tricks are treats The question remains: why do some people find pleasure in horror while others do not? Research suggests that those who enjoy horror have a psychological "protective frame" that falls into three categories. The first category is a safety frame. When watching a horror film or show, we need to feel assured that we are safe and that the evil entity is distant and incapable of harming us. The second category of protective frame involves a sense of detachment. We need to be reminded that the horror we witness is not real—it's simply exceptional acting, special effects, and art direction. Lastly, the protective frame encompasses our sense of control and confidence in managing the dangers we encounter. If we feel capable of controlling and overcoming the perceived danger, we can still derive excitement from a good scare. To fully enjoy the thrill of the spooky, we don't necessarily need all three frames. However, having fewer than all three tends to diminish our interest in the idea. Not surprisingly, some research suggests that individuals with a higher sensation-seeking trait and those who are more adventurous are more likely to enjoy horror. Horror movies have always captivated audiences, and there are several reasons why.
- AI-Generated
Soulmates
In a world with over seven billion souls, the notion of finding one’s soulmate seems akin to locating a needle in a cosmic haystack. Yet, tales of encounters and inexplicable connections abound, weaving a tapestry of hope and belief in the profound concept of soulmates. From ancient mythology to modern-day romance novels, the idea of two souls destined to find and complement each other resonates deeply within the human psyche. But what exactly constitutes a soulmate, and how do these celestial counterparts navigate the labyrinthine paths of fate to unite?
The Psychology Behind Psychopaths
Understanding the Psychology Behind Psychopathy. The feelings, the thoughts, and trauma behind it. Psychopathy is a complex personality disorder that has long intrigued psychologists, criminologists, and the general public alike. Often depicted in popular culture as cunning, manipulative individuals devoid of empathy, psychopaths are known for their ability to charm and deceive others while displaying a profound lack of remorse or guilt for their actions. But what lies beneath the surface of this enigmatic personality disorder? Delving into the psychology behind psychopathy reveals a multifaceted interplay of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Sleep Paralysis Experience
During episodes of sleep paralysis, people may have a variety of vivid and often scary hallucinations, such as seeing entities or figures in their surroundings. These hallucinations can feel extremely real and may be accompanied by a sensation of pressure on the chest, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of being unable to move.
- Content Warning
Last Night I Went To See Take That And Olly Murs: A Mental Health Account, Part Two.
This is my second part about my night seeing Take That and Olly Murs. In this article I want to talk about the pyrotechnics which involves the use of fire, or fireworks.
Carol TownendPublished 2 days ago in Psyche My IF: Recalling My Own Imaginary Friend
I was going to put this personal anecdote in my review of the new movie IF starring Ryan Reynolds and John Krasinski but, some people seem to think that personal anecdotes in movie reviews are 'everything that is wrong with film criticism.' I'm being facetious, that's a terrible take, and I put many personal anecdotes in movie reviews and there is nothing wrong with doing that whatsoever.
Sean PatrickPublished 3 days ago in Psyche- AI-Generated
The Ancient Tale of Narcissus: The Original Selfie Obsession
The Myth of Narcissus in Greek Mythology Introduction In Greek mythology, Narcissus was the son of the river god Cephissus and the nymph Liriope. Known for his unparalleled beauty, Narcissus's tale is one of tragedy and self-obsession. In the vast tapestry of Greek and Roman mythology, one figure stands out for his unparalleled beauty and tragic demise. The tale of Narcissus serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of excessive self-love and vanity.
Emotion Pathways
Author's Note: I planned on this piece over a month ago but was struggling so much I just couldn't bring myself to write. I had it with the title and image in my drafts for over a month and am now finally getting to it. I have just been physically and mentally exhausted from pushing my body too hard. I'm sure there will be more on that later, maybe.
Rene PetersPublished 4 days ago in PsycheThe Unexpected Joy of Solitude
In our hyper-connected world, the idea of spending time alone often carries a negative connotation. Many people equate solitude with loneliness, imagining a state of sadness or isolation. However, solitude and loneliness are not the same. While loneliness is a negative emotional response to being alone, solitude is the joy of being alone by choice. Embracing solitude can lead to surprising psychological benefits, fostering creativity, self-discovery, and mental well-being.
Sienna BlackwoodPublished 4 days ago in PsycheBent Progress
If you've ever dealt with any form of trauma, there is one mantra that therapists looove: "Healing isn't linear" Ugh. If you've been to therapy, you probably resent the saying as much as I do (even if you know it's true).
Ashley TrippPublished 4 days ago in PsycheWhat Is Intelligence? Where Does it Begin?
Humans have long prided themselves on a myriad of accomplishments, from the complexities of particle accelerators to the simplicity of poetry, and even the allure of Pokemon. Yet, underlying all these achievements lies a fundamental attribute that humans hold in the highest regard: intelligence. However, defining intelligence is no simple task; it eludes clear-cut categorization, leaving us grappling with its elusive nature.