Can fear and pleasure coexist? We often see these concepts as separate, and sometimes even oppositional. But is that accurate?
In this episode of The Mental Wellness Practice Podcast, Dr. Shainna explores the surprising psychology of recreational fear — the thrills we seek when we watch horror movies, ride roller coasters, drive fast, or even go bungee jumping.
Joined by Dr. Marc Andersen and Dr. Mathias Clasen from the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University, we’ll explore what happens when fear becomes fun — and how these playful experiences can actually improve emotional regulation, resilience, and mental wellness.
What recreational fear really is
Common misconceptions about fear and what it reveals about our brains
Who can benefit from engaging with fear in a safe, intentional way
Key findings from the Recreational Fear Lab and what they teach us about emotion regulation
Practical strategies to reframe fear as a tool for growth, confidence, and connection
Mathias Clasen, literature and media researcher, is an associate professor in the School of Communication and Culture, Department of English at Aarhus University.
Marc Andersen, cognitive scientist, is an associate professor in the School of Culture and Society, Department of Culture, Cognition and Computation at Aarhus University.
Dr. Shainna is a mental health counselor, educator, and advocate dedicated to helping individuals cultivate lifelong mental wellness. She is the owner of The Mental Wellness Practice in Central Florida and the creator of the bestselling Self-Love Workbook series and Designing Healthy Boundaries. Her insights have been featured in VOGUE, ABC, CBS, NPR, The Washington Post, and Insider, and she has been recognized with honors including UCF’s Noble Knight Distinction and the Pete Fischer Humanitarian Award for her efforts to promote emotional well-being. 🌐 Learn more at www.DrShainna.com or connect on Instagram @DrShainna.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn more about The Recreational Fear Lab and Mathias and Marc’s research
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This podcast is for educational purposes only. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder, please consult with a licensed professional.
Additional Mental Wellness Resources:
The Self-Love Workbook for Teens