The Surprising Benefits of Fear: Why We Seek Thrills and Enjoy Being Scared

Right now, people are lining up to scare themselves, whether on a thrill ride or in a haunted house. In fact, in October 2015 alone, about 28 million people visited haunted houses in the U.S. But what’s so enjoyable about being scared? Fear often gets a bad reputation, but it’s not all negative. In fact, fear can actually feel pretty good.

When we experience fear, our bodies activate the fight or flight response, releasing chemicals that change how we function. This automatic reaction prepares us for danger by boosting energy, dulling pain, and shutting down nonessential functions like complex thought. The result is a heightened state of awareness and energy—similar to the excitement, happiness, and even arousal we feel in positive, high-energy moments. The difference lies in the context: in real danger, we’re focused on survival, but in a safe environment, we can enjoy the thrill of that heightened state.

This explains why we can go from screaming on a roller coaster to laughing moments later—our bodies are already in a euphoric state, and we’re simply relabeling the experience as fun. However, not everyone responds to fear the same way. Research shows that individuals have different reactions to the chemicals triggered by fear, which explains why some people are thrill-seekers while others avoid certain sensations, like the stomach-drop on a roller coaster or the dread of a haunted house.

Fear also brings a sense of accomplishment. Just like any challenge—whether running a race or finishing a difficult task—facing something we’re afraid of boosts our self-esteem. Even when we know the danger isn’t real, our bodies still react as though it is. When we make it through an experience, the satisfaction and pride we feel are real, which has evolutionary benefits. Those who could balance bravery with caution were more likely to survive and thrive.

Finally, fear can strengthen bonds between people. Emotions, like fear, are contagious. When we see a friend scream or laugh, we’re likely to mimic their response, intensifying our emotional experience and creating a sense of closeness. The hormone oxytocin, released during the fight or flight response, enhances this bond, making us feel more connected during moments of fear.

Fear is a powerful emotion, and because it triggers such a strong reaction, it is often remembered vividly. If your memory of watching a horror film with friends left you feeling satisfied and connected, you’re likely to repeat the experience. Fear, when faced in a safe setting, can not only bring joy, but also provide a sense of achievement and foster deeper connections with others.