Psychological horror is a genre that focuses on the emotions and mental states of the characters, as opposed to physical violence or gore. Other synonyms for psychological horror include psychological thriller, suspense, fear, terror, and creepiness. It is a genre that delves into the deepest and darkest parts of the human psyche and often explores themes such as fear, anxiety, madness, and paranoia. The genre is known for keeping the viewer on edge throughout the film, creating a sense of dread that lingers long after the movie has ended. While not for everyone, psychological horror has a dedicated following of fans who enjoy the intellectual and emotional challenges the genre presents.