Digestly

Dec 22, 2024

Psychologist explains why we love holiday, feel-good movies

CNN - Psychologist explains why we love holiday, feel-good movies

Cheesy Christmas movies, often criticized for their predictable plots, are beloved by many because they provide psychological benefits. According to Dr. Pamela Rutledge, a media psychologist, these films are easy for the brain to process and focus on positive emotions like love, family, and redemption, leaving viewers filled with hope. They serve as a form of 'cinema therapy,' especially beneficial during the stressful holiday season, offering a chance to relax and escape from real-life pressures. The predictability and lack of major conflicts in these movies allow viewers to experience a dopamine and oxytocin boost, making them feel warm and cozy. Dr. Rutledge advises viewers not to compare their lives to the idealized scenarios in these films but to focus on the underlying messages of happiness and family importance. For those who dislike traditional Christmas movies, alternatives like 'Die Hard' are suggested, which also carry holiday themes.

Key Points:

  • Cheesy Christmas movies offer psychological benefits by focusing on positive emotions and are easy for the brain to process.
  • These films serve as 'cinema therapy,' providing stress relief during the holiday season.
  • Predictable plots and lack of major conflicts in these movies lead to a dopamine and oxytocin boost, enhancing feelings of warmth and coziness.
  • Viewers are advised not to compare their lives to the idealized scenarios in these films but to focus on the messages of happiness and family importance.
  • For those who dislike traditional Christmas movies, alternatives like 'Die Hard' are suggested as they also carry holiday themes.
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