Known as nonlinear sounds, high-amplitude sound waves “scare” the brain and are widely used in horror films
Even horror movies use science. In this case we are talking about one of the techniques to make spectators feel fear and fear: non-linear sounds. They basically defy expectations about what will happen, and humans evolved fear because it often means something bad is about to happen.
Nonlinear sounds are sound waves that are exceptionally high in amplitude and significantly louder than other types of sounds. They often contain abrupt frequency changes, non-standard harmonies or noise elements and cause an almost immediate change in attention or mood.
Researchers reveal that the brain has evolved to recognize the abnormality of non-linear sounds, allowing it to quickly react to potential dangers. This response is called the “acoustic startle reflex” by the scientific community and occurs within a few milliseconds. The reflex can also be observed in newborns.
As studies in the field describe, the brain itself does not know what is happening until this reaction occurs. It turns out that our ancestors had reason to fear nonlinear sounds that extended beyond the normal capacity of the vocal cords, due to the potential dangers.
In previous studies, it has been hypothesized that, when exposed to nonlinear sounds, the brain and body may react with a surge of adrenaline and cortisol, along with rapid breathing, a physiological response to fear. Additionally, the increased flow of adrenaline increases the heart rate and causes blood vessels to dilate.
These non-linear sounds are featured in horror film soundtracks, under the premise of instilling fear by using simple musical chords, amplifying unusual harmonies and manipulating frequencies.
Where does fear come from?
In 2022, Scientists have identified the neurons that give rise to fear. The study published in Cell reports started from the theory that neurons using a molecule called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) play an important role in processing this emotion.
According to this theory, neurons act together with the “fear center” of the brain: the amygdala.
The scientists recorded the activity of 160 CGRP neurons and found that most increased their activity when the rat was confronted with threatening sounds, tastes, smells, sensations and visual cues.
Also in 2022, researchers discovered a protein directly linked to the activation of fear in the brain. Reduced levels of a protein called PRDM2 may contribute to this sensation. It is mostly present in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC), where it silences genes by chemically modifying them.
Therefore, it is safe to assume that the non-linear sounds that occur during horror films are responsible for producing these scientific reactions. Little by little, studies are unraveling the mysteries of the brain and fear.
Source: NPR, The journal of neuroscience, Biology letters
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Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
