Horror, psychological thriller, and dystopian narratives have been popular genres for decades. They often depict dark themes that can be disturbing to watch or read, such as violence, death, murder, and monsters. While these stories are intended to entertain audiences and make them feel scared or excited, they may also shape our beliefs about intimacy, trust, vulnerability, and power in real life. In this essay, I will discuss how horror and related genres can influence adult fears about interpersonal relationships.
As an example, consider a famous horror movie called "The Shining". The story follows a man who becomes possessed by evil spirits while working as the caretaker of a hotel. He attempts to kill his family members but is thwarted, and ultimately driven insane. While this film is supposed to be terrifying, it may also raise questions about trust and intimacy between people. Can we really know what someone else is thinking? Are they capable of hurting us without warning? How much control do we actually have over ourselves? These questions linger long after the credits roll.
Another example is the TV show "Black Mirror", which explores various ways technology can go wrong in the future. One episode, "Nosedive," portrays a world where people rate each other's behavior using social media-like apps. Characters struggle to maintain good ratings and avoid being shunned by society. This scenario could make viewers question their own reliance on technology and online reviews. Are we too dependent on digital feedback for validation? Do we trust others based solely on numbers or ratings? Could that system ever turn against us?
Dystopian narratives can also affect our perceptions of power dynamics.
The book "1984" depicts a totalitarian government controlling every aspect of its citizens' lives. People are constantly monitored and punished for deviating from the norm. This novel raises questions about authority figures and how far they should go in order to protect their citizens. Should we blindly follow orders from those in charge? Is there any room for dissent? What happens if we resist?
Horror and related genres can shape our beliefs about interpersonal relationships, trust, vulnerability, and power. They encourage us to consider worst-case scenarios and how we would react in those situations. By engaging with these stories, we may gain new insights into ourselves and our place in the world. While it's important not to let fear take over our lives, understanding why certain themes resonate with us can be helpful as we navigate real-life challenges.
What role does unsettling media (horror, psychological thriller, dystopian narratives) play in shaping adult fears about intimacy, trust, vulnerability and power?
Unsettling media often depicts situations where characters are confronted with situations that challenge their sense of security, safety, and belongingness. These types of narratives can be highly disturbing and may trigger strong reactions from viewers due to the fact that they portray scenarios which might seem far removed from everyday reality.