We like the dark when we’re scared because it hides the things that scare us. Imagine you're in a room with a monster, if it's dark, you can’t see what’s coming, but maybe you’ll feel safer until something jumps out! The dark gives us time to think and maybe even prepare for the next surprise.
Examples
- When you’re scared at night, hiding under the covers feels safe because it blocks out the light, and with it, the monsters.
- A child who is afraid of the dark might feel safer if they turn off their bedroom light before going to sleep.
- Even though there are more shadows in the dark, the lack of visible shapes can make a person feel less threatened.
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See also
- Why Do People Start Hiding When They're Nervous?
- Why Do We Feel Nervous in the Dark?
- Why Do People Enjoy ‘Horror Movies’ Even When They’re Scared?
- Why Do People Enjoy Scary Movies Even When They’re Afraid?
- How Does the Brain Process Fear?
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