Experts also suggest that these sad stories help us appreciate the things that make our lives meaningful.
Even though we know it isn’t real, we automatically experience emotions in response to it.
The more involved participants became in the film, the more they enjoyed it.
Edwin Tan / Getty Images
This may be key to our ability to enjoy sad fictional stories.
Based on this definition, it’s clear that the appreciation experience is positive, but not purely pleasurable.
Consequently, appreciation can lead topersonal growth.
Essentially, consuming sad media can help you feel your feelings without the hurt.
It can also lead to insight, gratitude, and meaning.
So feel free to indulge the next time you’re tempted to binge-watch a heart-wrenching story.
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