Horror and the Brain: Do Horror Films Improve Students’ Brain Activity?

Horror movies have long been a source of entertainment and fascination for people around the world. But did you know that they also affect our brain activity? Recent scientific research has shown that horror movies can actually change how we think and feel.

For starters, studies have found that watching horror films leads to increased levels of endorphin release in the body. Endorphins are chemicals produced by the brain that make us feel euphoric, so it’s no surprise that we often experience a rush while watching scary movies.

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But not only do these endorphins cause us to feel good, they also lead to heightened states of alertness and arousal that can last for hours after viewing. This means that our brains become more active as we watch horror films, and this heightened state of awareness enables us to be more attentive and engaged with the story.

Furthermore, horror movies can also cause our brains to release dopamine, another neurotransmitter that helps regulate emotion and pleasure. This means that watching scary films not only increases our alertness but also makes us feel good – even if it’s a bit of an adrenaline rush! If you are interested in this topic, you can read the why we crave horror movies analysis essay written by students. This essay sample, like many others, shows what a perfect essay is like. Thus, you can also learn how to write your papers in a better way by reading it. Spend your time only on studying what really interests you.

How horror movies affect learning

Horror films can also be a great tool for learning in the classroom. By watching horror films, students can observe and analyze characters’ motivations and actions to better understand their own emotions and learn how to respond in different situations. Horror films are also effective in helping students understand different moral values, such as justice, empathy, and courage.

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This type of critical thinking helps students gain the skills they need to make informed decisions that will benefit their lives. In addition, horror films stimulate creative problem-solving by encouraging students to think outside the box when it comes to potential solutions for difficult problems.

Finally, horror films allow students to explore their fears in a safe environment and build resilience to cope with real-life anxiety or stress. All these skills are essential for students to become critical thinkers and successful members of society.

Overall, horror films can be a great tool for learning in the classroom. By watching them, students can gain valuable skills that will help them succeed in school and life. Of course, it’s important for teachers to monitor what their students watch and make sure they understand the content appropriately. However, with careful guidance, horror films can be an effective learning tool for any classroom.

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The best horror movies for students

For students who are looking for a great horror movie experience, here are some of the best picks:

1. The Exorcist (1973). This iconic horror movie is widely considered to be one of the greatest of all time and it’s easy to see why. It follows a young girl as she battles an unseen evil force inside her home with the help of two priests. It combines elements from drama, suspense and psychological thriller genres to create an unforgettable viewing experience.
2. The Shining (1980). Stanley Kubrick’s classic tale about a family cursed by a haunted hotel is full of creepy visuals and dialogue that will stay with you long after you watch it. Jack Nicholson stars as a writer trying to overcome his inner demons while staying in the isolated hotel, with terrifying results.
3. Get Out (2017). This critically acclaimed horror movie is a commentary on race and class in America. Directed by Jordan Peele, this film follows Chris as he visits his white girlfriend’s family and realizes that something sinister is going on. With its smart script and intense performances, it’s one of the best horror movies of recent years.
4. The Conjuring (2013). Based on real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this movie tells the story of a family being terrorized by supernatural forces inside their own home. It has plenty of scares, but it also provides an interesting look into the history of the Warrens and their other cases.
5. The Babadook (2014). This Australian psychological horror is about a single mother and her son dealing with a strange creature that seems to have taken up residence in their home. With its dark themes and atmospheric visuals, this movie will keep you on the edge of your seat.
6. Halloween (1978). This classic slasher film defined the genre and is still one of the scariest movies ever made. It follows Michael Myers as he escapes from a mental institution on Halloween night and goes on a killing spree in his hometown.
7. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984). Wes Craven’s movie about a dream-stalking serial killer will give you nightmares for days. It’s full of cleverly written jump scares and creative special effects that make it one of the most iconic horror films to this day.
8. The Ring (2002). Based on the Japanese horror movie “Ringu,” this American remake tells the story of a cursed videotape that kills people seven days after they watch it. This movie’s creepy visuals, suspenseful scenes and unique plot make it a must-watch for horror fans.
9. The Descent (2005). This British horror follows a group of female friends as they get lost in an unexplored cave system deep beneath the Earth. With its claustrophobic setting, intense action sequences and sudden jump scares this is one of the scariest movies out there.
10. The Mist (2007). Based on Stephen King’s novella, this movie tells the story of a small town that gets engulfed by an unnatural mist full of unknown creatures. It has some truly frightening scenes and keeps you guessing until the very end.

No matter what type of horror movie you like, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab some popcorn and get ready to be scared!

Author’s BIO

Evelyn Montoy is an award-winning movie director. She has been making films for over twenty years and has won numerous awards. Her films have been shown in festivals all over the world and she has been featured in major publications.