Why Couples Who Watch Horror Movies Together End Up Happiest

There’s a biological reason couples who watch horror together seem to be the happiest. As one doctor explains, “When we’re scared, our brains pump out the feel-good chemical dopamine, the same chemical we release when we’re infatuated with someone.” Horror brings us closer together by biologically cementing attraction.

Watching horror movies together also makes a couple feel closer because they are having a shared emotional experience. Throughout the film they’ll share the feeling of fear and later relief as the plot develops. It’s good for the health of your relationship to have vulnerable moments together, and there are plenty of those while watching something that may make you jump or want to sleep with the lights on later. Also, it doesn’t hurt that horror movies are a great excuse to get close and cuddle up, reminding your partner that they make you feel safe and releasing feel-good oxytocin with all that skin-to skin contact.

It’s also about the kind of people who love horror. Couples who watch horror movies together know you don’t need expensive or extravagant dates to be a healthy couple. They are happiest with the simple act of being at home enjoying each other’s company. They are down to earth, easy to please, and value quality time all elements of lasting happiness for a couple.

People who regularly watch horror movies are less stressed out people in general, which has a big impact on relationship health. Horror movies have a calming effect generated by the cycle of adrenaline production and the way watching something so engrossing gives your brain a break. They serve as mini “vacations” that allow you to come back rested and with more resilience to deal with the normal stresses of life.

There’s nothing like bonding over a newfound fear, or your criticism of how dumb that girl must be to investigate a strange noise in the basement with a serial killer on the loose. Watching horror movies together is an inexpensive, easy habit to work into your routine that keeps you bonded to your partner. Look around at the couples you know who watch horror together, and you’ll see what you’re missing out on.