1. Uncanny valley
It is referred to the unsettling feeling caused by the interaction of things and audio to create human-like replicas but isn’t convincing enough.
Humans look at faces to gather as much emotional information as possible. Dolls fall in the gray area that looks human but gives no clue of their feelings (let’s hope they don’t have any).
2. Influence of pop culture
Horror movies have over-exploited the dolls and somehow they still creep the life out of everybody. On the nights you feel daredevil to watch ‘Child’s Play’ is somehow the same night your beloved teddy bear seems to be shifted his place on the sofa. Or is that even your teddy bear in the house?
2. Genetics
No this doesn’t mean if your great grandfather was scared of dolls you’ll be too. (Although it is a possibility) The human brain is wired to detect threats to keep us alive. But when it looks at a doll with a blank expression and blinking eyes, it induces fear in our body just to be safe.
3. Uncertainty
True story documentaries have swamped the internet with millions of views and fan theories. Yes, dolls have their own fan base. These controversies steer curiosity and make us question reality.
4. Pediophobia
No! No, read it again. It’s not what you think. Pediophobia is exactly how it sounds- fear of dolls. The word ‘Pedio’ in it refers to kids, as this phobia is most common in kids. This is the farthest end of the spectrum and might call for some help from a professional.
Conclusion
Are you into Annabelle or Chucky? Neither, I hope. But if you are, hello psychopathic tendency person. For the rest of us, share this blog with all your friends to figure out the problematic ones.
