Why do we choose to watch horror films, read scary stories or seek out a good jump scare?

In this Halloween special, Grace is joined by Chartered Psychologist Stuart Duff to explore the psychology of horror. From Halloween and Psycho to The Haunting of Hill House and The Woman in Black, they unpack why fear can feel fun, comforting, and even bring us closer together.

Together, they explore the science behind recreational fear, morbid curiosity, sensation-seeking and whether horror can help us practise emotional regulation, build resilience and safely rehearse how we might respond in threatening situations.

Whether you’re a horror devotee or prefer to watch from behind a cushion, this episode reveals why we are so drawn to a good scare.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

References:

• Clasen, M. Monsters evolve: A biocultural approach to horror stories. Review of general psychology (2012)
• Clasen, M. and Scrivner, C. Various research papers from the Recreational Fear Lab based at Aarhus University
• Haidt, J., McCauley, C., & Rozin, P. (1994). Individual differences in sensitivity to disgust: A scale sampling seven domains of disgust elicitors. Personality and Individual Differences.
• Martin, G.N. (Why) do you like scary movies? A review of the empirical research on psychological responses to horror films. Frontiers in psychology, 2019