EPISODE · Oct 26, 2017 · 22 MIN
#019 Halloween as therapy
from The University of Liverpool Podcast · host University of Liverpool
At this time of year we flock to horror films and prepare ghoulish costumes - but why do we do this? For children the answer is easy: sweet treats. For adults, the attraction to frightening things is a bit more complicated. One in six people in Great Britain experience anxiety or depression each week. Though many struggle with inner demons, they are also attracted to the macabre and the terrifying. It seems like a paradox but Dr Peter Kinderman says taking part in Halloween traditions can be therapeutic.
What this episode covers
At this time of year we flock to horror films and prepare ghoulish costumes - but why do we do this? For children the answer is easy: sweet treats. For adults, the attraction to frightening things is a bit more complicated. One in six (https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/our-services/anxiety-information/frequently-asked-questions/#2) people in Great Britain experience anxiety or depression each week. Though many struggle with inner demons, they are also attracted to the macabre and the terrifying. It seems like a paradox but Dr Peter Kinderman (https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/psychology-health-and-society/staff/peter-kinderman/) says taking part in Halloween traditions can be therapeutic.
NOW PLAYING
#019 Halloween as therapy
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
Mar 26, 2026 ·1m
Mar 19, 2026 ·34m
Feb 18, 2026 ·11m
Feb 11, 2026 ·45m