Date Presented

Spring 5-18-2025

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Virginia Cylke

Second Advisor

Mr. Dylan Elliott

Third Advisor

Dr. Rachel Willis

Abstract

Why do some people enjoy being scared while others avoid fear at any cost? This study investigated how individual differences in personality, anxiety, and morbid curiosity contribute to the enjoyment of horror. Drawing on frameworks such as Mood Management Theory and Threat Simulation, this research explored psychological and emotional responses to five horror subgenres. Thirty-five participants completed assessments on personality, morbid curiosity, and anxiety and enjoyment before and after watching clips. Results revealed that high negative emotionality was associated with significantly heightened anxiety responses, while low-anxiety individuals reported increased enjoyment. Familiarity with horror had an effect with lower anxiety and increased enjoyment, suggesting potential desensitization. Contrary to prior research, morbid curiosity did not emerge as a significant effect. These findings underlined the psychological complexities of horror consumption, framed it as both a form of emotional exploration and a reflection of individual identity.

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