Source 5 Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is one reason people enjoy horror films despite the fear they invoke?
People enjoy horror films because of the physical and emotional release that follows a scary situation. The thrill comes from the adrenaline rush, and viewers experience positive feelings once the fear subsides (Seeker, Discovery).
What are the three primary factors that contribute to the attraction to horror entertainment, according to Glenn D. Walters?
The three factors are:
Tension (created through mystery, suspense, and shock).
Relevance (universal or personal connection to the themes).
Unrealism (viewers acknowledge that the events are fictional and entertaining).
How do biological reactions play a role in the enjoyment of horror films?
Fear triggers the fight-or-flight response, boosting adrenaline and other feel-good chemicals. When the fear ends, viewers feel intense relief, contributing to their enjoyment (Huffington Post, Margee Kerr).
What is “excitation transfer” and how does it relate to horror enjoyment?
“Excitation transfer” refers to the phenomenon where the adrenaline rush from fear intensifies feelings of relief and enjoyment once the threat is resolved (Margee Kerr, The Atlantic).
What brain structures are involved in processing fear?
Thalamus (sends sensory data to the right places),
Sensory Cortex (interprets the data),
Hippocampus (stores memories and processes context),
Amygdala (decodes emotions and stores fear),
Hypothalamus (activates the fight-or-flight response).
How does individual empathy affect the enjoyment of horror films?
People with lower empathy tend to enjoy horror films more, as they are less affected by the suffering of others. Those with higher empathy may dislike horror because they react negatively to others’ pain (Ron Tamborini).
What is the relationship between sensation-seeking and horror film enjoyment?
Sensation-seeking individuals may enjoy horror films because they seek to stimulate their sensory responses. Studies show they may be more aggressive than others (Cynthia A. Hoffner & Kenneth J. Levine).
What does the theory of “excitation transfer” explain about emotional responses to horror films?
The theory suggests that the emotional response (fear) triggered by horror is transferred to increased enjoyment once the tension or threat is resolved (Cynthia A. Hoffner & Kenneth J. Levine).
“People who are less empathetic enjoy horror films more…” — What does this quote suggest about the psychology of horror film enjoyment?
This quote highlights that empathy influences one’s response to horror films. Less empathetic individuals may not be as disturbed by the suffering portrayed, allowing them to enjoy the genre more (Ron Tamborini).
What psychological component allows viewers to enjoy horror films despite the fear they invoke?
The knowledge that viewers are in a safe environment allows them to enjoy the thrill and the biological reactions (such as increased adrenaline) without real danger, making the fear enjoyable (Glenn Sparks, Purdue University).
