Why Crying at Movies Makes You Stronger Than You Think
Empathy, Resilience, and the Surprising Science Behind Shedding Tears at the Movies
In a culture where emotional restraint is often equated with strength, shedding a tear during a movie might seem like a weakness. But what if tearing up in front of the big screen — or your streaming app — actually shows resilience? Science suggests that crying over fictional stories reveals a powerful blend of empathy, emotional intelligence, and a connection with our inner selves that’s not only healthy but downright beneficial.
The Science of Tears: Why Do We Cry?
Humans produce three types of tears: basal (for lubrication), reflex (from irritants like smoke or onions), and emotional. It’s the emotional tears we shed during movies or in response to life’s ups and downs that scientists find fascinating. These tears contain hormones like prolactin and leucine enkephalin, which help reduce stress and improve mood. When we cry over a movie, we’re not just expressing emotion; we’re also chemically processing and relieving stress.
In fact, researchers have found that emotional tears release oxytocin and endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. By letting out emotions through tears, you’re actively reducing…
