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2 clusters · 5 sources · 6 days · First seen · Last updated

Psychological drivers of horror genre enjoyment

Overview

Research into the horror genre explores how uncertainty and biological responses influence viewer and participant enjoyment. Studies suggest a ‘sweet spot’ of uncertainty exists where fear is neither too predictable nor too unpredictable, with enjoyment peaking at moderate fear levels.

Individual preferences are often shaped by personality and the desire for familiarity, such as the known formulas found in slasher films. Beyond narrative structure, experts point to a biological paradox where frightening stimuli trigger the release of hormones like adrenaline, cortisol, and oxytocin. This allows individuals to experience intense emotions and explore taboo themes while the brain maintains an awareness of psychological safety within a controlled environment.

Entities

Pierre Oswald · Obsession · Kennesaw State University · Netflix · Nicole Martin

Timeline

  1. [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Psychology of fear explains the appeal of horror and haunted houses

    Psychologists and psychiatrists explain that the appeal of horror stems from a biological rush of hormones and the ability to experience fear within a controlled, safe environment.

  2. [CULTURE] 3 sources
    Psychology of horror movie preferences and genre impact

    Horror movie enjoyment relies on a balance of uncertainty, with individual preferences shaped by personality and mood, ranging from predictable slashers to unpredictable supernatural tales.

Sources

complex.com · elmotin.com.do · kion546.com · krdo.com · rtl.be