Prof Dissects Why Some Like A Good Scare
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) - A Purdue University professor says many people who enjoy the horror movies that crop up around Halloween often don't understand why they like a good scare.
Communications professor Glenn Sparks has surveyed hundreds of people over the years, studying why they do or don't like horror films.
He said most people who enjoy frightening movies or television shows aren't really hooked on the cinematic horror - instead, they like the relief that comes when scary scenes end.
Sparks said some people also enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with being scared.
He said many adolescent males who flock to horror movies get a feeling of mastery when they weather a terrifying or gruesome scene without fleeing the theater or covering their eyes.
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