Why Do You Jump In A Horror Movie?

December 28, 2016
By
Danielle L'Ecuyer

No one is exempt from the feeling of fear. It is that particular anticipation of fear that causes many to jump during a horror movie. There is an interesting underlying reason for why so many find themselves jumping during a scary movie, and it all has to do with the chemical reactions and brain signals.

The Build-Up

When the body feels at ease watching a scary movie, there remains an abundance of action taking place in the brain. During a scary plot build-up, the body will begin to become tense with anticipation of the coming event. The brain knows that something is going to happen, but does not know what.