Halloween is the perfect excuse to grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and binge some scary movies. You know, the one with the hockey-mask wearing slasher, the chainsaw-wielding hillbilly, or the space alien with acid for blood.
Maybe keeping the lights on isn’t such a bad idea after all.
There’s an undeniable thrill to being scared, though not everyone might agree. For some, the very thought of watching a horror film, stepping into a haunted house, or embarking on a ghost tour is a definite no-go. So, what draws so many of us to these hair-raising experiences?
The Psychology of Fear
Fear is a profound motivator, designed to trigger defensive behaviors or escape responses when we encounter specific stimuli. Essentially, the sensations we identify as fear are physical and emotional reactions to perceived threats.
For our ancestors facing dangerous predators, treacherous terrain, and severe weather, fear was vital to survival. Today, our fear response can kick in at less opportune moments—like experiencing a panic attack before a public speech. However, when the conditions are right, fear can be thrilling.
Why We Seek Out Scares
The reasons we seek out frightening experiences are as diverse as they are fascinating. Let’s explore some of the key psychological factors that drive our attraction to fear-inducing situations.
To Engage in Extreme Experiences Safely
Often, we can’t control what makes us feel afraid, such as an unexpected jump scare in a cheesy horror flick. But our brains are quick to realize that, while startling, these scares are not real threats. Once our mind realizes we’re safe, we can relax and enjoy the adrenaline rush.
To Feel a Rush Like No Other
When we feel fear, our bodies undergo a physiological change that prompts a behavioral response—this could be fight, flight, or freeze. Our amygdala signals our adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline, spiking our dopamine and endorphin levels. Our heart rate increases, pupils dilate, and senses sharpen. This biochemical rush can be pleasurable, especially when we know we’re safe, allowing us to revel in the euphoria.
To Release Pent-Up Emotions
Throughout life, we’re encouraged to control our emotions and keep our feelings in check. Fear, however, gives us a socially acceptable way to let loose—screaming our way through a haunted house or cursing at the movie screen after a jump scare. Such activities provide a healthy outlet to release pent up emotions, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.
To Bond Over Frights
Experiencing fear in a group can amplify emotions. Anyone who’s sat through a horror movie on a packed night knows what we’re talking about. This shared euphoria can strengthen bonds with others, as fear can foster a sense of closeness and camaraderie. There’s nothing like trauma bonding to cement a friendship!
To Overcome the (Seemingly) Impossible
Confronting and overcoming fears can be deeply satisfying and empowering. For example, someone afraid of spiders might feel immense pride after watching the classic horror comedy “Arachnophobia.” (Again, watch with the lights on.)
To Indulge Our Curiosity
Many scares await inside a haunted house, but that’s not going to stop anyone who’s the least bit curious about what lurks beyond the threshold. Humans are naturally curious; we want to learn more about the world so that we can make better sense of it. This drive to understand the unknown propels many of us to seek out frightening experiences, even if it means venturing alone into a haunted house.
Face Your Fears
There’s one last fear that many never overcome—one so terrifying we hesitate to mention it:
The fear of attending college.
Many potential students tremble at the thought of the time, money, and resources it must take to earn a degree. Fortunately, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a flexible online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that addresses these fears head-on:
- No commuting: Never step foot on campus.
- Manage social anxiety: Connect with fellow classmates from a distance.
- Flexible scheduling: Explore courses that fit your lifestyle and responsibilities.
- Affordable learning: Attend one of the most affordable colleges in the University of Texas System.
UT Permian Basin’s online BA in psychology program will take you on a comprehensive exploration of the human mind. Explore not only the psychology of fear but also all emotions that influence human behavior. With focus areas in clinical, developmental, forensic, and health psychology, you can tailor your education to your passions.
Earning a degree that can alter the trajectory of your career may seem daunting, maybe even scary, but it’s a fear worth overcoming. Click here to learn more about our BA in psychology, and when you’re ready, take the next step by applying to UT Permian Basin.
Sources:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-do-we-like-to-get-scared
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/thoughts-thinking/201810/5-reasons-we-enjoy-being-scared
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicoleroberts/2023/10/22/the-science-of-scare-why-we-love-the-thrill-of-being-afraid/