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Why We Keep Coming Back: The Science Behind Our Disney Obsession

Why We Keep Coming Back: The Science Behind Our Disney Obsession
October 04, 2023
Natasha Dixon - LA Post

Every year, millions of people travel to Disney theme parks, sometimes multiple times a year, leaving many of us to wonder what the parks' alluring appleal is. The answer lies in the intricate interplay between individual psychology, sensory immersion, and the dynamics of group interaction.

The desire to travel is more than a figure of speech. According to recent studies in behavioral psychology, the need to see the world may be a driving mental and emotional force. This is because our brains are hardwired to seek novelty, which in turn can stimulate the reward-related chemical dopamine.

The utilization of aromas in Disney parks is one way that the company appeals to our brain's reward system. The park's various attractions and themed sections each have their own unique scent, from the briny sea air of Pirates of the Caribbean to the sweet, homey perfume of freshly baked goodies on Main Street U.S.A., as many guests will confirm.

This isn't by chance. In reality, "Smellitzers" are a type of technology used in Disney parks to distribute these aromas. These covert devices emit precisely selected smells to heighten visitors' sensory experience and evoke strong feelings about the park.

Social pressure also plays a role in perpetuating our Disney fixation. Experience sharing on social media is commonplace in today's technological world. Disney parks are no exception to the rule that we are more inclined to visit destinations that friends and family have visited and discussed online.

However, the strongest reason for our Disney park infatuation is the feelings of nostalgia they bring back to us. Disney theme parks are built on nostalgic nostalgia for a bygone era, with everything from classic Disney characters to attractions themed after the early 20th century.

Disney theme parks are experts at appealing to our sentimentality.They use well-known Disney characters and the nostalgic atmosphere of the first Main Street, U.S.A. to achieve this. Visits to Disney parks become more than just fun excursions; they have deeper significance.

In today's internet-connected world, sharing personal anecdotes is fundamental to building relationships with others.

 This includes the Disney theme parks. Disney provides guests with picture chances galore, from delicious snacks to famous landmarks, in the hopes that they would share their memories and help spread the Disney magic.

Scent is a potent instrument for establishing an impression because of its strong connection to memory and emotion. Disney theme parks make excellent use of this phenomenon by dispersing signature aromas using "Smellitzers" technology. 

Interacting with unfamiliar individuals from all over the globe stands out as a profound aspect of the experience. In addition, the park's carefully chosen aural, tactile, visual, and smell components are meant to captivate guests. This is more than just a collection of rides, games, and attractions—this is an immersive experience in its purest form.

In the end, Disney parks extend beyond the realm of mere rides and attractions; they present a genuine immersive journey that envelops all our senses and forges enduring memories

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