We are biologically wired for fear.  It is an evolutionary mechanism that keeps us safe.  

Fear is meant to warn us about people, places and things that could be dangerous. It is meant to create an uncomfortable reaction in our bodies to warn us away from dangerous situations.  

This might feel like a tingling at the back of your neck, an upset stomach,  shivers running up your spine or even goosebumps.  

If this is meant to be a warning, a physical discomfort, why are horror movies, haunted houses, and thrill rides so popular?  

Our physical response to fear may be an important consideration in seeking a reason for your love of fear.  

Our bodies can feel a rush of adrenaline and cortisol in a safe place without the threat of danger.  

Adrenaline is a hormone that helps  the body prepare for fight or flight.  It increases your blood circulation,  raises your heart rate, and causes rapid  breathing.  

Cortisol is responsible for the  response to stress in the body. It will  increase blood sugar, thus increasing  glucose levels in the brain for energy.  

These two hormones help you to deal with immediate stressors by increasing energy and alertness while preparing the body for action.  

Once the short-term threat is over and your mind knows you are not in danger, dopamine and endorphins are released. These neurotransmitters are  

part of our reward system and may generate good feelings. 

Dopamine is part of our reward and pleasure system; it promotes feelings of motivation and general well being. Endorphins release feelings of euphoria.  

Together, these hormones improve your mood while reducing stress.  Fear is not just physiologically stimulating; it is also mentally stimulating. Scary attractions also allow us to face our fears and limits without real danger. This may result in a feeling of accomplishment or bravery.  We can use haunted houses and scary movies as a means to explore situations and feelings without much risk.  This is something humans have done for hundreds of years. Think of  Dracula, Frankenstein, and Homer’s  Odyssey.  

These stories were created and continually shared so that they persist even now in our culture in remakes and adaptations.  

The thrill is also a great break from our usually scheduled programming of stress or anxiety. It may present a sense of release or even a momentary escape.  

Stressful emotions that may be pent up can be released in a jump scare by a chainsaw-wielding madman on the big screen. The increase in your heart rate and blood pumping throughout your body can give the feeling of relief found after exercise. 

It is good for your friend group.  Sharing a scary experience with others increases bonding. You and your friends or family members may find yourselves huddled together behind a pillow or grasping hands to run through the haunted house.  

Your shared emotions allow you to grow your bond through shared experiences.  

Supporting and coaching the hesitant friend through the scary situation can build their confidence while helping to develop trust in your relationships.  

It is important to recognize that people experience and process fear-inducing situations differently. Responses to scary situations can be influenced by a person’s past, history of trauma and their belief system. 

For some, the fear may be very real. I caution you to approach those fear-inducing fun experiences with a light heart, while recognizing that fear may not be fun for everyone. 

This time of year, there are plenty of opportunities for us to be scared for fun.  You can attend the haunted house at Wilkes University,  Horror Hall or catch the newest horror movie.  

Challenge yourself to experience the fun of fear.