BBNBonkers Broadcasting NetworkSunday, October 11, 2026Sun, Oct 11Watch live

U.S.WEEKEND WEIRDNESS

Don't be scared: Being afraid is outright fun, and maybe useful

NPR explores why people enjoy being scared, noting that fear can feel thrilling and may offer psychological benefits—though results may vary.

On air: Hank Ledger, Vera Bullock and Kenji Moonfield on Weekend Edition
Published
Photo: Ayeshare1 · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons
▶ As it aired · U.S.

Watch it as it aired: Hank Ledger, Vera Bullock and Kenji Moonfield on this story, from Weekend Edition at 8:22 AM ET. Cartoon anchors, real headline: the facts are NPR's, the jokes are ours.

Photo: Ayesha Rascoe
Photo: Ayeshare1 · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

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What BBN said about it

  1. Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorNPR says host Ayesha Rascoe adores horror, and science says fear can feel thrilling and may even help us psychologically.

  2. Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorSo the haunted house is basically therapy with a chainsaw.

  3. Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentI paid twenty dollars to be chased by a guy in a hockey mask.

  4. Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorDid it help?

  5. Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentI cried in a corn maze. Feel great.

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