What psychological impact do creepy or unsettling atmospheres have in horror media, and how do they enhance the experience?

Creepy or unsettling atmospheres are instrumental in enhancing the psychological impact of horror media. By creating environments that evoke discomfort—through eerie settings, dissonant sounds, or unsettling visual design—horror media taps into the audience’s instinctive unease. For example, the abandoned asylum in “The Grudge” or the dimly lit, labyrinthine corridors in “The Shining” contribute to a pervasive sense of dread and vulnerability. These atmospheres heighten the overall tension, making every moment of suspense feel more intense and immersive as the unsettling environment amplifies the audience’s fear.