It’s almost October, folks! And for me, that means it’s the beginning of the Halloween season. Around this time every year, I endlessly scroll through streaming services for that perfect horror flick. This is a bit of a departure from my usual content, but let’s dive into something a little spooky today. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do people like horror movies?”—you’re not alone. I’ve been pondering this question myself.

I’ve loved horror movies since my teen years, and my obsession with Stephen King books and true crime has been just as strong. Many people don’t understand why I’m drawn to the macabre. Even my mom often asks what intrigues me so much about it. After some research and finding the horror and true crime communities on YouTube, I realized I’m not alone.

So, why do people love horror movies? It all comes down to science.

The science of fear

Our love for horror comes from biology. Watching a scary movie triggers a hormonal reaction, releasing adrenaline and stress hormones that make us feel alert and powerful. This fight-or-flight response, meant to protect us from real danger, turns into a thrilling rush when experienced safely through a movie. We’re wired to crave this excitement, and horror films offer the thrill without the risk.

The excitement peaks when we root for the final girl or yell at the screen as clueless characters make bad choices. It’s a safe way to dive into darkness and danger—feeling the fear, enjoying the rush, and then turning off the TV to return to safety.

The cathartic experience of horror movies

Horror isn’t just about the scares; it’s also about catharsis. Cheering for the protagonist, mocking the antagonist, or analyzing the bizarre motivations of characters allows us to process our own fears in a controlled environment. We connect with the story, relate to the characters, and ultimately find a sense of relief when the credits roll. It’s our way of exploring the darker aspects of human nature—from a safe distance.

A shared love for the macabre and horror movies

There’s also a sense of belonging that comes with being a horror fan. Finding communities that share your passion for the eerie and macabre, whether it’s on YouTube, Reddit, or local Halloween meetups, is like discovering your own tribe. The discussions, theories, and debates are as thrilling as the movies themselves.

Whether you’re debating why Michael Myers never runs or theorizing the origins of a haunted artifact, the community aspect adds another layer of enjoyment. It’s comforting to know that your love for all things spooky isn’t weird—it’s shared.

Finding joy in the jumps and screams

Let’s not forget the fun. Many of us were eased into horror with “fun scary” content like Goosebumps or Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, giving us startles without real fear. These early scares paved the way for the thrill and entertainment we now enjoy.

So, nothing’s strange about loving spooky season or a good scream. We don’t want to BE the kid getting grabbed by the sewer clown—we just want to watch from the safety of our sofas. Horror is all about feeling fear in a fun, controlled way, with a little excitement and a happy ending—even if it’s covered in guts and gore.

Looking for something to add to your streaming cue this fall? Check out The 10 Scariest Horror Movies Ever on Rotten Tomatoes.

Just watched a horror movie that’s keeping you up at night? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Check out my latest article on falling asleep quickly, and rest easy!