Why Do We Love Horror? with Psychotherapist Katie Evans (Mental Health Monsters)
About this episode
The episode explores the psychological connection between horror and the human mind with psychotherapist Katie Evans.
In this episode we’re joined by psychotherapist Katie Evans for a fascinating conversation about the deep psychological connection between horror and the human mind. We explore Katie’s lifelong love of the genre and how her professional background has shaped the way she understands our attraction to the dark, the macabre, and the things that scare us. Why are we drawn to horror? What does our fascination with monsters, violence, and taboo ideas actually say about us? Together we dig into the psychology behind horror fandom - from repressed desires and difficult emotions to the safe space the genre creates for audiences to confront fear, grief, and the unknown. We also look at how different types of horror reflect different parts of the human psyche, and what they reveal when you scratch beneath the surface. Beyond the films themselves, we talk about the powerful sense of escapism and community that horror offers, and why so many people find comfort within the genre. Katie also shares details about her upcoming book, the incredible tour of talks she’s currently delivering across the UK and Ireland, and what’s next on her journey exploring the psychology of horror. If you’ve ever…
People in this episode
Host: Aran Doyle
Guest: Katie Evans
Topics covered
- psychology of horror
- horror fandom
- mental health
- monsters
- escapism
- community
Keywords
- horror
- psychotherapy
- fandom
- fear
- grief
- monsters
- escapism
- community
- psychology
- taboo
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