Roller coasters. Scary movies. Bungee jumping. Why do we like the things that scare us?

One researcher at the University of Arkansas, Dr. Brittany Schrick, believes she has it figured out.

Listen:

click to download audio

Schrick says, at the bottom of it all, is biology.

Listen:

click to download audio

Endorphins are hormones that can give us a sense of well-being.

That rush of fear followed by a sense of relief has social effects as well, Schrick said.

Listen:

click to download audio

However, the tolerance for fun fear isnt the same for everyone.

Listen:

click to download audio

Schrick said that some people seem to have a higher threshold for risk taking than others, and it often shows up at an early age. They are the ones likely to look for thrilling activities because they like how they feel being on the edge of safety.

And, interestingly, the fun of the safe scare often starts with infants.

Listen:

click to download audio

So why not be scared sometimes when we know everything will end up OK?

WebReadyTM Powered by WireReadyNSI

Read the original here:

UofA researcher states biology is behind the enjoyment of the safe ... - ktlo.com