Interview: Why Do Some Brains Enjoy Fear?

Our bodies go into a fight or flight response and release dopamine.

According to Dr. Kerr, how are our bodies affected by things that scare us?

That we are in a safe environment.

According to Dr. Kerr, what critical information do we need to have in order to enjoy a scary situation?

People can become more attached after going through a frightening experience.

How does fear make the world a smaller place?

He was made deathly afraid of white rabbits.

What happened to Baby Albert?

It releases dopamine which can give a natural high, and they can also boost their confidence.

Why do people like to scare themselves and others?

The brain can tell very quickly if the situation is dangerous.

Why do people react the way they do during a scare?

The chemicals released can build strong memories of scary situations. (flashbulb memories)

Why should little kids not get too scared?

interviewee

a person with a specific knowledge

adrenaline

a rush that affects the heart and blood pressure

interview

a structured conversation between two people that is presented either in written or broadcast form

stimulus

a thing that causes a reaction

diction

an author's word choice

claim

assertion of position or truth

endorphins

chemical in the brain that helps people cope with pain easier

oxytocin

hormone that helps with making memories

dopamine

neurotransmitter also known as the feel good hormone

dissonance

not normal, without harmony

cognitive

relating to thought or process

flight or fight response

response to stress and frightening situations

evidence

should involve facts, such as data, documented information, and research studies

sociologist

someone who studies people and society

-ive

suffix that forms adjectives

-ion

suffix that turns words into abstract nouns