The science of fear: What makes us afraid, and why do we sometimes like it?

The Science of Fear

The things that evoke fear have become a part of the Inland Northwest, and researchers were ready to study them. This week in Spokane, classic horror scenes were reenacted, reminding us that scares are plentiful, especially around Halloween.

According to Kristen Lindgren, a clinical psychologist and researcher at the University of Washington School of Medicine,

fear is hard-wired into the human condition
and serves as an evolutionary function. The internal mechanisms that trigger fear are complex, and it's interesting to note that people often seek out experiences that evoke fear.

As Halloween approaches, fear will be at the forefront of many people's minds. Whether it's a classic horror movie, a sudden noise, or an unexpected encounter, fear is a universal emotion that plays a significant role in the human experience.

Author's summary: Exploring the science behind fear and its role in human evolution.

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The Spokesman-Review The Spokesman-Review — 2025-10-31

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