File under: Obvious.
Last week, the Kansas State University media relations department sent out a press release saying that a couple of psychology professors had taken a "look at some reasons behind the fascination with fireworks." We expected some deep insights into the human psyche. What we got instead:
Holidays, weddings and birthdays are occasions that tend to bring out the most traditional side of people, said Richard Harris, K-State professor of psychology.
"This is particularly true if people have strong memories of celebrating a holiday in a particular way in their childhood," Harris said. "People are strongly drawn to recreate that 'safe' childhood holiday activity. People who might never seek out a fireworks display other times might find that important to do on Independence Day. People who remember enjoying setting off fireworks themselves as children will want to do that as adults or at least help their kids do it, and as such, perpetuate those memories."
If someone has no such memories, they won't respond that way, Harris said.
Harris said his specialty is in language, thinking and the media -- not people's obsessions with explosives. "I was just providing a general psychological angle," Harris said. When the woman from K-State's media relations office called, he said, he just gave her some comments that "are pretty
non-controversial and generally believed."
At least the other prof's theories went a little deeper. Mary Cain, an associate professor of psychology, said people like fireworks because they can be dangerous.
"Engaging in risky behaviors is very reinforcing for people," Cain said. "For some, it can cause release of a chemical in the brain that helps people feel good. The chemical is a neurotransmitter called dopamine and it is released when we engage in behaviors we enjoy, such as eating, drinking, sex, etc. Some people release dopamine when they engage in risky behaviors....
People who are high sensation seekers enjoy risky behaviors more and seek them out. In addition to fireworks, they enjoy things that are novel and complex -- such as roller coasters, skydiving and driving fast," she said. "On the other hand, low sensation seekers do not enjoy these activities and will likely avoid them."
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