Did you always know you wanted to study fear?
I was a thrillseeker as a kid. I liked scary movies. But later I became interested in the science behind fear. I wondered: Why do people react differently to scary things? How can fear help us?
Why is your work important?
The more we know about our emotions, the more power we have over them. I use the information I find to help people who have phobias. Those are very strong fears that don’t go away easily.
What’s it like working in haunted houses?
It’s awesome. My job is to figure out the best ways to scare visitors! Some things—like flashes of light, sudden blasts of air, or tilted floors—can be extra scary when you’re in a dark room.
Why do some people like being afraid?
Our bodies release similar chemicals when we are scared or excited. This excitement can be so strong that it makes you feel like your brain “shuts off” for a moment. You forget about any worries. That’s why people love roller coasters and scary movies.
What’s something you want people to know about fear?
It’s OK to be afraid sometimes! Fear is a natural reaction. It helps humans survive. So always listen to your gut, and never try anything just because someone pressures you to.
What advice do you have for kids who want to face their fears?
Find safe ways to challenge them, or try this: Write a story about something you’re afraid of, but make yourself the hero. Maybe you befriend a spider or win an award for public speaking. This can help your brain turn fear into excitement.
