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Ken Carter

Clinical psychologist at Oxford College of Emory University, where he studies sensation seekers. Author of Buzz! Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers, Daredevils, and Adrenaline Junkies.

Top 3 podcasts with Ken Carter

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13 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 50min

Can You Be Bored to Death? & Why Thrill Seekers Seek Thrills

James Danckert, a psychology professor and author of 'Out of My Skull,' explores the depths of boredom, discussing its nature, purpose, and surprising effects on mental health. He explains how boredom can serve as a motivational signal that prompts engagement. Meanwhile, Ken Carter, a board-certified clinical psychologist and author of 'Buzz!,' dives into the psyche of thrill-seekers, revealing their motivations and the physiological differences that drive their adrenaline-fueled pursuits. Together, they dissect the fine line between boredom and thrill-seeking behaviors.
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Oct 29, 2025 • 18min

Why Morbid Curiosity Is So Common—And So Fun

Coltan Scrivner, a behavioral scientist and author, explores our fascination with horror and why some are drawn to morbid curiosity. Ken Carter, a psychology professor and author, examines thrill-seeking behavior and our physiological responses to fear. They discuss the rise of horror during the pandemic, its cathartic effects in uncertain times, and how horror fans often show high empathy. The duo also delves into the emotional regulation benefits of facing fears in a safe setting and why zombies continue to captivate our imaginations.
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Aug 30, 2021 • 12min

Why A Good Scare Is Sometimes The Right Call

Ken Carter, a psychologist from Oxford College of Emory University, specializes in thrill-seeking behavior. In this lively chat, he explores why some people love getting scared, revealing the psychological allure of fear during experiences like haunted houses and horror films. Carter discusses the peak of thrill-seeking in adolescence and how environmental factors shape our appetites for risk. With personal anecdotes, they uncover the curiosity surrounding scary scenarios and the unique traits of high sensation seekers.

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