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.