‘IT’ could cause fear of clowns - psychologist
With a $179.2 million (NZ $246.64m) opening weekend, the film version of Stephen King’s IT has been eating the box office competition alive around the world.
The horror film, about a group of children battling a supernatural killer who appears as Pennywise the demonic clown, has upset one veteran performer who said it destroyed ‘‘what clowning is all about’’.
Wayne Annand, known to Taranaki audiences as CJ the Clown, said he was still dealing with adults traumatised by a 1990 TV version of the story - and according to psychology expert Samantha Spafford he could have a point.
‘‘I certainly believe a fear of clowns would occur for many children after viewing the original IT,’’ Spafford, principal psychologist for online counselling service Positive Mind Works, said.
‘‘Only for some would this develop into a phobia which they carry with them throughout adulthood. Phobias are certainly not a laughing matter and can cause significant distress.’’
The most famous was Englishman Joseph Grimaldi, who was hailed as the King of Clowns in the early 1800s. His stage look has been an influence on clowns - including Pennywise - ever since.
‘‘There are a number of popular theories as to what causes Coulrophobia (fear of clowns),’’ said Spafford.
‘‘Clowns are believed to be frightening for some children rather than funny because of their exaggerated facial and body features.
‘‘The hypothesis is known as ‘uncanny valley’ and explains why some robots, clowns, aliens etc, which are close to human form but different, can appear frightening.’’
Spafford said the second theory related to a clown’s make-up and wig. The dramatic costume can also cause fear because it can completely hide the person underneath so you don’t know what they look like, she said.
‘‘Phobias are frequently the result of a scary or frightening event - sometimes it is unclear what has caused a phobia.
‘‘If you are suffering from a phobia of clowns or something else there are effective treatments available.’’