$~~~~$Typically featuring zombies and serial killers, horror movies are too frightening to be fun for some people. But many others enjoy a good fear spectacle, and line up to see the latest scary movie. Given the variations in preferences, new studies have started to untangle the benefits and risks of horror movies.
$~~~~$One benefit of horror movies revolves around the concept of so-called “safe fear.” When watching a frightening film, people are in the comfort of their own home or theater seats rather than under the threat of any real danger. In a controlled environment, these films may actually reduce the negative impact on viewers and help them become tougher. Secondly, as people are drawn into the story, they tend to take the perspective of the characters and rehearse the plot unconsciously. Researchers believe that viewers are learning vicariously this way, picking up tips on how to handle threats in the real world. In addition, studies show that the thrill and excitement linked with scary films can be therapeutic: It allows viewers to release bottled-up emotions and experience a sense of relief after the movie is over. This probably explains why during the COVID-19 pandemic, horror and pandemic thrillers were the most-watched movies on digital movie apps.
$~~~~$However, researchers also find that horror movies can have negative effects on some people. People who are more sensitive to anxiety can panic after viewing a thriller. For those with unpleasant experiences, trauma may be triggered by the themes and images in the movies, which could make their symptoms worse. Furthermore, watching horror movies can disturb sleep patterns, as the residual fear and anxiety they evoke may keep people awake all night, thus leading to fatigue and irritability the following day. Finally, specialists warn that frightening films can have a negative impact on children. Children under 14 who watch horror movies have a greater chance of developing anxiety later in adulthood. Worse yet, exposure to graphic violence and bloodshed can make them less sensitive to real-life violence and more accepting of aggression.