Why Kids Are Scared by Horror Films: Fear and Innocence
Horror films often elicit a mix of thrills and frights in viewers, but for children, these cinematic experiences can be truly terrifying. The reasons why children find horror films frightening are rooted in both the portrayal of corruption and the element of danger associated with the characters. This article explores these factors and their psychological impacts on young viewers.
The Corruption of Innocence
One of the primary reasons young viewers are frightened by horror films is the depiction of corruption and the destruction of innocence. When a child is depicted as the antagonist or a source of horrors in a film, it represents a profound and unsettling corruption of their inherently innocent and good qualities. This dissonance between the appearance of a child and the actions they engage in creates a stark psychological contrast that is jarring to the audience.
A child with a look in their eyes that seems to portray knowledge of something terrible, combined with an expression of evil, can be particularly disturbing. This is because we generally associate wisdom and evil with adults, not innocent children. Such portrayals highlight the dark realities of the world and can leave a lasting impact on the young mind.
Children as Victims and Knowers-Too-Much
Another factor contributing to children's fear in horror films is the portrayal of children as victims or knowing too much about the supernatural or dangerous occurrences. For example, in Poltergeist, Carol Anne’s perception of entities and her ominous statements create a sense of precognition. This adds a layer of unease to the film, as it challenges the conventional understanding of a child's understanding of complex and frightening situations.
The creep factor here is amplified by the fact that children, even in horror films, are often portrayed as seemingly wise and aware of hidden dangers. This is juxtaposed with their generally innocent and unknowing nature, creating a psychological disconnect that can be terrifying.
Psychological Impact on Young Viewers
The fear experienced by children in horror films extends beyond the film itself. Children who watch horror movies frequently may become more aware of the dangers in the real world. This heightened awareness can stem from various sources, including the media and their immediate environment. Amusement parks, kidnappers, and caves are all threats that attract a lot of media coverage, which can startle and concern children.
Children are equipped with survival skills such as observation and intuition, which are crucial for understanding and navigating their surroundings. In unfamiliar situations, a child's behavior often reflects this natural trait, with hunched shoulders and slightly downcast heads as they methodically assess the environment. This makes the new or unknown environment much more real and frightening for them.
Preparation and Protection
It is essential for parents and guardians to be aware of the psychological effects that horror films can have on children. While it's impossible to shield them completely from the world's dangers, being mindful of the content they consume and discussing these films with them can help make the experience less traumatic.
Encouraging open communication about their fears and providing reassurance can alleviate some of their anxieties. Additionally, parents should monitor the types of movies their children watch, ensuring that the content is age-appropriate and aligns with their developmental stage.
In conclusion, the fear that children experience when watching horror films is deeply rooted in the psychological and emotional response to the portrayal of corruption and danger. Understanding these factors can help both filmmakers and parents better address the concerns of young viewers and ensure these cinematic experiences are as entertaining as they are ethically responsible.