Many people consider horror films merely frightening entertainment. However, according to recent research, watching horror films actually has significant psychological benefits. One of these is helping our brains and minds train themselves to deal with the uncertainties of life.
Uncertainty is a part of everyday life. We never know what tomorrow will bring, whether plans will go according to plan, or whether the unexpected will happen. Watching horror films, with all their tension and fear, can actually be a "safe simulation" for the brain to learn how to deal with uncertain situations.
Research on Horror Films and Uncertainty
A theory published in the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B explains that horror films provide a controlled environment for the brain to practice predicting and managing uncertainty.
In a study titled " Surfing Uncertainty with Screams: Predictive Processing, Error Dynamics, and Horror Films ," researchers found that the fear that arises when watching horror films actually helps the brain adapt to unpredictable conditions. When we watch a suspenseful scene, the brain tries to guess what will happen next. If it guesses wrong, the brain learns to adjust. This process trains our ability to deal with uncertainty in the real world.
Why Can Horror Movies Be Beneficial?
Watching horror films actually offers several benefits for the mind. First, they provide a safe environment for experiencing fear . Unlike real danger, the fear that arises is merely simulated, allowing the brain to practice dealing with tension without risk.
Furthermore, horror films also help train prediction and adaptation . Scenes full of surprises force the brain to try to predict what will happen, then learn from mispredictions. This process trains mental flexibility to be better prepared for the unexpected.
Another benefit is reduced anxiety in real life . By getting used to the uncertainty of movies, we can feel calmer when facing unexpected everyday situations. Furthermore, watching horror movies also provides a pleasurable sensation . Although frightening, many people feel satisfied after watching because their brain has successfully "conquered" the fear in a safe environment.
Overall, horror movies are not only entertainment, but also mental exercises that help us be more resilient in facing life's uncertainties.
Real-Life Examples of Horror Viewing Experiences
Imagine watching a classic horror film like The Conjuring or A Quiet Place . A quiet scene creates suspense, then a sudden, heart-pounding surprise occurs. Our brain tries to predict when the jump scare will occur, and when it fails, it learns to accept that not everything is predictable.
This experience is similar to real life. For example, when facing an exam, a job interview, or an unexpected situation, we often feel anxious. However, through "practice" from horror films, the brain becomes accustomed to dealing with uncertainty and is better prepared to handle it.
Other Positive Impacts of Watching Horror
Besides training the mind to face uncertainty, watching horror films also has several other benefits:
- Increase focus and attention : Suspenseful scenes make the brain more alert.
- Increases social cooperation : Many people watch horror with friends or family, creating a bonding experience.
- Releasing stress : Experiencing fear can be a way to vent emotions and reduce tension.
Challenges and Important Notes
While beneficial, horror films aren't suitable for everyone. Some people may experience trauma or difficulty sleeping after watching them. Therefore, it's important to adapt to your individual circumstances. If you feel overly anxious, it's best to choose a different, more comfortable genre.
Furthermore, the benefits of horror films don't mean we have to watch them every day. Occasionally, as both entertainment and mental exercise, is sufficient.
Conclusion
Research shows that watching horror movies can help the brain practice dealing with uncertainty . By simulating fear in a safe environment, the brain learns to predict, adapt, and accept uncertainty. These benefits can have positive impacts in real life, making us better prepared to face everyday challenges.
So, the next time you watch a horror movie and feel your heart racing, remember that it's not just entertainment. It's also mental training that can make you more resilient in the face of life's uncertainties.
