<p>Why are people afraid of things that they know are harmless or non-existent? For example:
Why do horror films/stories leave people scared after they have finished?
Someone may see a harmless spider somewhere that isn't even on their property, and still be scared of it. What is the phenomenon behind this?</p>

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2013-08-30T21:11:38.737Z
I'd like to try and help you clarify this question if you'd like. Please feel free to ping me in chat if you'd like. For now, I've put it on hold.
Josh
<cognitive-psychology><perception><anxiety><fear>
Why are people afraid of things that they know are harmless or non-existent?
Oliver
# Why are people afraid of things that they know are harmless or non-existent?

(Asked by: username_0 on 2013-07-27)

Why are people afraid of things that they know are harmless or non-existent? For example:
Why do horror films/stories leave people scared after they have finished?
Someone may see a harmless spider somewhere that isn't even on their property, and still be scared of it. What is the phenomenon behind this?

**Tags:** cognitive-psychology, perception, anxiety, fear

> **Comments:**
> **username_1**: I'd like to try and help you clarify this question if you'd like. Please feel free to ping me in chat if you'd like. For now, I've put it on hold.  

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