Superhero movies have long been a beloved genre, captivating audiences with epic battles, superhuman abilities, and larger-than-life characters. While they are often viewed as pure entertainment, a closer look reveals that these films offer mental health benefits along with thrills and excitement.
As Brie Larson prepares to return as Captain Marvel in “The Marvels,” releasing on November 10, we delve into the mental health benefits of superhero movies and the life lessons they impart.
“The Marvels” is just one of many superhero films inspired by Marvel and DC comic book characters, known for taking viewers on emotional rollercoaster rides filled with deaths, friendships, love, and fierce battles between heroes and villains, or even heroes pitted against each other.
Amidst all the action and spectacle, these narratives and characters serve as powerful vehicles for life lessons.
A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work highlighted the therapeutic potential of superhero films.
Conversations about these movies and their protagonists within peer support groups helped individuals find strength, meaning, and purpose in their personal struggles. They discovered that they could not only be the heroes of their own stories but also learn important life lessons.
Mental Health Benefits Of Watching Superhero Movies
Motivation
Superhero films are often brimming with motivation and inspiration. They encourage viewers to strive for their goals, believe in their abilities, and face challenges head-on.
Sparking Imagination
Movies, including superhero ones, are excellent catalysts for sparking imagination and creativity. They transport us to fantastical worlds, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills
Superhero characters are known for their quick thinking and clever solutions to complex problems. Characters like Iron Man and the Hulk showcase unique ways to defeat adversaries, inspiring viewers to think critically and find solutions to their own challenges.
Strengthening Family Bonds
Superhero movies appeal to a broad spectrum of age groups, making them ideal for family viewing. Furthermore, family dynamics are often integral to the storylines, such as Bruce Wayne’s tragic loss of his parents in Gotham. These themes contribute to strengthening family bonds and imparting valuable lessons about love and loss.
The impact of superhero movies is not limited to adults; children benefit significantly from them as well. These films boost children’s confidence, educate them about morality, and stress the importance of teamwork.
Superhero characters also serve as role models for youngsters, guiding them toward positive values and behaviors, according to Dr. Ashish Gambre, a Consultant Psychiatrist.
Harnessing Mental Well-Being Through Superhero Therapy
Superhero therapy is a concept that involves integrating stories and characters from popular media, including books, TV shows, movies, and video games, into evidence-based therapeutic approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
It aids individuals dealing with mild anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. By connecting with fictional superheroes who have faced their own struggles, patients can learn to accept negative thoughts and feelings, finding inspiration to become their version of a superhero in real life.
Side Effects of Superhero Movies
Unrealistic Expectations
Excessive viewing of superhero movies can lead to unrealistic expectations, making it challenging for individuals to differentiate between fiction and reality.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Watching movies for extended periods may contribute to a sedentary lifestyle and reduced physical activity, which can negatively impact overall health.
Increased Aggression
The violence and intense action in superhero films can trigger increased aggression in some viewers, potentially affecting their behavior.
Imitation and Injuries
Children, in particular, may be inclined to imitate the stunts performed by superheroes, which can lead to accidents and injuries.
In summary, superhero movies offer valuable lessons and benefits for mental health, serving as a source of motivation, imagination, problem-solving skills, and family bonding.
Their impact extends to both children and adults, making them a powerful tool for personal growth. However, moderation is key, as excessive viewing can have negative consequences.
Just as superheroes find balance in their dual lives, viewers should practice moderation when indulging in these fantastic tales to maintain a healthy mental state.