Overrated Popularity of Halloween Frights Scares Expert.

AScribe Health News Service, October, 2006

Byline: Purdue University

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.m Oct. 12 (AScribe Newswire) -- A good scare this Halloween, whether it's from a horror film or haunted house, is really not the preferred treat for most people, says a Purdue University mass media effects expert.

"The assumption at this time of year is that everyone seeks a scary experience because they enjoy it," says Glenn Sparks, a professor of communication. "Research shows that not everyone wants to be scared and that a substantial proportion of the population is wary about exposing themselves to this kind of entertainment."

Sparks, who has surveyed hundreds of people on this topic over many years, says that about one-third of the population actively seeks a good scare, another third avoids...

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