According To Research, Watching Horror Films Is Beneficial To Mentally Train When Facing Uncertainty

YOGYAKARTA Are you one of those who like to watch horror films even though they often close your eyes when tense scenes appear? Apparently, the fear you experience has its own benefit for mental health. A new theory published in January 2024 in the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences reveals that horror films can help the human brain practice uncertainty.

The study entitled Surfing Uncertainty with Screams: Predictive Processing, Error Dynamics and Horror Films conducted by Mark Miller, Ben White, andTICan Scrivner, three researchers who are interested in understanding how fear can be a learning tool for the brain. The results show that watching horror films is not just entertainment, but also healthy mental exercise.

According to the researchers, the human brain works like a prediction machine that continues to guess what will happen based on sensory experience. When the prediction does not match reality, it appears called prediction error, and the brain will update its internal model to make it more accurate in the future. Horror films create perfect conditions for this process, as viewers experience shocks and tensions without real risks.

In every tense moment, a sudden jump score, your brain is 'trained' to face unexpected things in a safe way. As the researchers said in a publication published by Psypost, Friday, November 14, We argue that a predictive processing framework can be a thorough explanation for human involvement with horror content, and this opens up opportunities for a clear and testable hypothesis.

Miller and his colleagues also explained that the appeal of horror films lies in a balance between predictable things and surprising things. The familiar structure of the story, such as the main characters who struggle to survive, gives audiences a sense of security. However, at the same time, surprising elements such as sudden sounds or unexpected grooves keep the brain alert. This combination forces the brain to continue to update its predictions without feeling overwhelmed. As a result, you still feel tense, but also get satisfaction when successfully "confined" that fear.

Apart from being a cognitive exercise, horror films can actually help increase emotional regulation. You learn to respond to fear more consciously. Among other things, by recognizing an increased heart rate, fast breath, or soaring adrenaline, while still knowing that everything is happening in a safe room. According to miniman Scrivner, who is also known for his research on morbidity or curiosity about scary things, interest in horror can be a natural way for humans to understand risks. He explains that watching horror films helps the brain distinguish between real dangers and manageable threats. In other words, fear on the screen can help you to be calmer in the real world.

Although it is useful, not everyone is suitable to use horror films as a mental exercise. For some individuals with a history of trauma or high anxiety, too intense shows can actually strengthen the perception that this world is dangerous. Miller and his team emphasized the importance of understanding their own boundaries because not all forms of uncertainty can be considered healthy. If after watching you actually feel restless excessive or having trouble sleeping, it's a sign that your brain is tired of facing too much perduction error. Like sports, mental exercise through horror films also needs a right dose so that the results are optimal.

So, if you like watching horror movies, now you know that behind tensions and fear, your brain is actually practicing facing uncertainty. By watching at a balanced level, you can use horror films as an exciting way to train the brain to remain calm in unexpected situations. However, keep being wise in choosing the spectacle so that the benefits feel without adding to stress.