Why are we, as humans, so captivated by the dark and macabre? Why do our hearts race watching a horror film or listening to a true crime podcast? It’s a fascination that has baffled and intrigued psychologists for decades.
There’s a palpable difference between the allure of true crime and the thrill of horror, says forensic psychologist Dr. Janie Johnston. True crime, with its basis in reality, carries a weight that fictional horror doesn’t possess. “There’s obviously a very real component to it,” notes Dr. Johnston, “and so that is something I think that adds a whole different level of seriousness.”
The Allure of Horror: A Deep Dive
Horror, a genre as old as storytelling itself, holds a unique power over our psyche. John, a researcher in the field, reveals that a staggering 54% of Americans are drawn to scary movies. It appears that our fascination with fear is, in many ways, hardwired.
A still from a black and white horror film featuring a shadowy figure.
Studies reveal that thrill-seekers and younger audiences are particularly drawn to horror. Men, too, tend to gravitate toward the genre more than women. Interestingly, individuals who find it difficult to detach from their empathy tend to shy away from horror.
Dr. Johnston points out that enjoying a horror film requires a specific psychological recipe. First, a sense of physical safety is paramount. This is why many prefer company while watching a horror film, as it reinforces the feeling of security.
Second, we need a degree of psychological safety, the ability to distance ourselves from the onscreen horrors. While imagination is key to immersing ourselves in the story, too much can be detrimental. A delicate balance is required, allowing us to engage with the fear without becoming overwhelmed.
Third, we need a sense of self-efficacy, a belief that we can handle whatever terrifying scenarios unfold. Dr. Johnston likens repeat viewings of horror films to a form of exposure therapy. Each viewing lessens the intensity of the fear response, akin to a “tune-up” of our fight, flight, or freeze system.
The Physiological Thrill Ride
Horror films don’t just play with our minds; they trigger a cascade of physiological responses. As we watch victims flee masked killers or ghostly apparitions, our bodies are flooded with cortisol and adrenaline.
“We’re basically tapping into a more primitive part of our brain that we have had…since the beginning of time,” explains Dr. Johnston. Our amygdala, the brain region associated with fear, is activated, replicating the survival instincts our ancestors relied upon.
In a way, horror films offer a controlled environment to exercise these ancient responses. Our frontal cortex, the seat of higher-level thinking, recognizes the artificiality of the threat, allowing us to enjoy the adrenaline rush without a real-world trigger.
Social Bonding Through Shared Fear
Watching a horror film isn’t just a solitary pursuit; it can be a powerful bonding experience. There’s a reason why horror movie dates are a popular choice. The shared experience of fear and excitement can ignite a spark of romance.
Dr. Johnston highlights the social aspect of horror, noting that the vast majority of horror fans prefer company while watching. This preference speaks to our primal need for connection and the comforting presence of others in the face of fear.
Shared experiences, especially those that evoke strong emotions, can trigger the release of dopamine, the neurochemical associated with pleasure and reward. This release strengthens our bonds with those around us, solidifying friendships and kindling romantic connections.
A Legacy of Fear: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Screens
The human fascination with horror extends far beyond the silver screen. For centuries, we’ve been captivated by tales of murder, the macabre, and the supernatural. Dr. Johnston points out that our ancestors flocked to courtrooms to witness murder trials, mirroring our modern-day consumption of true crime.
This enduring fascination suggests that our desire to confront and understand fear is deeply ingrained in our nature. From ancient rituals designed to appease malevolent spirits to modern-day horror blockbusters, we’ve created safe spaces to explore the darkest corners of our psyche.
Dr. Johnston draws a parallel between rubbernecking at a car accident and our draw to true crime. Both stem from a morbid curiosity, a desire to understand the how and why of tragic events. We’re simultaneously horrified and captivated, unable to look away from the spectacle of human suffering.
The Thin Line Between Fascination and Action
The question of whether fictional violence translates into real-world aggression is a complex one. While some research suggests a temporary increase in aggression after playing violent video games, the link between horror movies and violent behavior remains tenuous.
Dr. Johnston emphasizes that the vast majority of true crime enthusiasts are driven by a desire to understand, not to emulate. They seek to unravel the motivations behind heinous acts, often harboring a desire to help solve crimes or advocate for justice.
“Most people who watch True Crime,” Dr. Johnston observes, “if anything, they want to help solve crimes or they are interested in figuring out…why people do bad things.”
The Importance of Respect and Boundaries
As with any intense interest, it’s crucial to acknowledge and respect individual boundaries. What one person finds thrilling, another may find deeply unsettling. Forcing someone to engage with horror against their will can be detrimental and counterproductive.
Dr. Johnston emphasizes the importance of respecting individual differences. “Just realize that we all are wired differently,” she advises. If horror isn’t your cup of tea, that’s perfectly fine. However, for those who revel in the thrill of a good scare, embrace your dark side, and enjoy the ride.
As Halloween approaches, remember that our fascination with horror, in all its forms, is a testament to the complexity of the human experience. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest corners of our psyche, there lies an enduring curiosity and an unyielding desire to confront the unknown.
