Adrenaline junkies feast on the fear sensation, seeking it out through daring and dangerous feats. Fear can be an overwhelming feeling, yet this response to real or perceived danger is an essential and valuable mechanism that helps ensure survival. While not everything triggers the same fear response in every person, fear is an innate emotion that is both psychological and physiological.

When fear strikes, the body surges with adrenaline creating the traditional "Fight or Flight" stress response. This response activates the body for action. Blood vessels constrict, the heart races and breathing accelerates, the muscles are primed for quick motion.

In modern times with advanced technology and lifestyles, most people don't experience this survival response on a regular basis like our ancestors did. Those who live among dangerous wildlife or work in excessively dangerous occupations may experience this response mechanism regularly.

For those who don't, whose lifestyles lack the fear factor, they may seek out this sensation through extreme activities like skydiving, bungee jumping and other extreme sports which are becoming increasingly popular.

Like a drug, the firing of neurons, rush of adrenaline and endorphins can provide people with an invigorating, energizing and overall feeling of well being that they want to keep replicating.

Watching horror movies and thrillers may serve this same purpose. Reality shows like "Fear Factor" have delved into the fascination and addiction to the fear sensation.

Although a natural biological response, excessive stress on the body can be dangerous to overall health with increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.

Learn more about this author, Sharon Dewar.
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