Click here & learn about the long and short-term psychological effects of playing video games. Anxiety, catharsis, stress & many more are described below.
One of the most evident facts is that horror games and films have always managed to occupy a special place within the interactive entertainment industry. Contrary to what many people may think, horror games aren't just play things or a source of escapism. Rather, they've been carefully designed to heighten anxiety, evoke fear, and test a player's emotional tolerance.
To some players, the horror genre triggers deep-seated feelings of dread that can push them to turn off their consoles. However, to others, horror games are much like slots offered at online casinos such as 7slot; the psychological thrill of these games is mind-blowing.
With these two observations, the big question arises: what are some of the psychological effects of horror games on players? This is what this article is going to address. Topics to be discussed include:
- The short-term effects of playing horror games
- The long-term effects
- Why players are always drawn back to the game despite their notorious reputation
These are the main categories, although there's plenty more to discuss under each.
Short-Term Effects of Horror Games – Anxiety, Catharsis and Stress
Studies show that people playing horror games tend to experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. Many players exhibit symptoms such as a hyper-focused mental state, sweaty palms, and heightened heart rates.
It's easy to conclude that playing horror-themed video games can lead to psychological stress, especially among the younger and more sensitive players. The stress is noticeable through nightmares, heightened anxiety, and increased vigilance.
To some players, the horror included in the game can act as a form of emotional release or catharsis, leaving the player exhilarated or relieved after the end of the session.
The Long-Term Effects of Horror Games – Resilience and Desensitization
There's a lot of debate as far as the long-term effects of horror games are concerned. The big question under this is whether extended or repeated exposure to horror games can cause desensitization. Some people believe too much exposure will result in numbing the player's emotional response to suffering and violence in the real world.
However, there are some studies that show long-term exposure to horror games can build a player's psychological resilience. Players who frequently engage in horror games have shown improved abilities to manage their anxiety and fear. Some of these coping skills are eventually transferred into real-life situations.
Why Are Players Drawn Back to Horror Games?
The answer to this lies in how horror games combine a sense of mastery and fear. Each tense encounter or scare is considered a challenge to overcome. When a player succeeds, they are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment, which isn't easy to emulate in the real world.
Overcoming the fear, not just facing and dealing with it, is the thrill that keeps many players and adventurers returning to horror-themed games from time to time.
Conclusion
Horror-themed games continue to stand testament to the sophistication of the human condition. They cause us stress, frighten us, and in some cases, leave a mark that we cannot overcome. Despite these challenges, they also manage to challenge and amaze us, leaving us thirsting for more.
