Why watching scary movies is good for you according to science

Do you love the spine-tingling thrill of a good scary movie? Well, guess what? Science has got your back!  

Contrary to popular belief, watching scary movies can actually be good for you. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of fear and its unexpected benefits. 

• Stress Relief 

Believe it or not, watching a scary movie can be a fantastic way to blow off some steam. A study by Dr. Margee Kerr, a sociologist, and author of Scream: Chilling Adventures in the Science of Fear, revealed that "When we watch scary movies, our body releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers."  

So, that adrenaline rush you get while watching a horror flick? It's a built-in stress reliever! 

• Improved Immunity 

While it might seem counterintuitive, watching scary movies can actually boost your immune system. According to Dr. David Spiegel, a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University, "Fear triggers the release of immune-boosting endorphins, which can enhance the body's ability to fight off illness." So, that terrifying monster on the screen might just be your new secret weapon against the common cold. 

• Enhanced Cognitive Skills 

Horror movies are like mental workouts for your brain. Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein, a professor at the University of Utrecht, explains, "Watching a horror film can stimulate cognitive functions like problem-solving, memory, and critical thinking." It's like an exercise regime for your gray matter. Who knew being scared could be so intellectually stimulating? 

• Emotional Catharsis 

Do you ever watch a scary movie and find yourself screaming at the characters, "Don't go in there!" or "Run, you fool!"? Well, it turns out that's a good thing! Dr. Glenn Sparks, a professor of communication at Purdue University, says, "Watching horror movies allows us to release our pent-up emotions and anxieties in a safe and controlled environment." So, you can let out all those bottled-up frustrations without actually scaring your friends and family. 

• Strengthened Relationships 

Believe it or not, watching a terrifying movie with someone you care about can bring you closer together. Dr. Sarah Gomillion, a social psychologist at the University of Alabama, notes that "experiencing fear together can increase the sense of bonding between people." So, the next time you're on a date, consider ditching the rom-com for a horror film. It might just be the start of a beautiful (and spine-tingling) relationship! 

So, there you have it! Watching scary movies isn't just about screams and jump scares; it's a way to improve your mental health, boost your immunity, and even strengthen your relationships.  

Next time you're in the mood for a movie night, don't hesitate to queue up a good horror film and embrace the chills. Remember, it's all in the name of science! 

As Dr. Margee Kerr aptly puts it, "Fear is a universal human experience, and harnessing it through scary movies can be a fun and healthy way to embrace the thrill of the unknown."  

So, go ahead and embrace the fear—it's good for you!