Here’s an in-depth look at what makes content go viral, according to insights from fascinating psychology studies:
The Emotional Recipes for Virality:
- High Excitement + Positive Vibes:
To create shareable content, amplify positive emotions to their peak. Think along the lines of feelings like being “in love,” “passionate,” “enthusiastic,” or “ecstatic.” Content that channels these high-energy, positive emotions can ignite excitement and inspire people to share it widely. - High Excitement + Surprise:
Pair intense positive feelings with an unexpected twist or element of surprise. The combination of thrill and the unexpected keeps viewers engaged and eager to share the content with others. - High Excitement + Negative Vibes + Surprise:
It might seem counterintuitive, but pairing high-arousal negative emotions (like fear, panic, or shock) with a sense of positive submission (such as relief or awe) and a sprinkle of surprise can create a powerful emotional journey that resonates deeply. - Desire + Submission + Surprise:
Content that stirs strong feelings of desire and submission—such as admiration, longing, or even curiosity—and delivers a shocking or surprising element often compels people to engage and share. - Low Excitement + Negative Vibes + Surprise:
Even low-arousal negative emotions, like boredom, embarrassment, or disappointment, can become engaging when balanced with a subtle positive element and a dose of surprise. This unexpected emotional shift can make content memorable. - Low Excitement + Negative Vibes + Surprise:
Similar to the above, combining low-energy negative emotions with an element of shock or surprise can turn otherwise mundane feelings into something intriguing. - Low Excitement + Positive Vibes + Surprise:
When relaxed, content feelings—like satisfaction, calmness, or mild happiness—are given a surprising twist, they can create a refreshing and share-worthy emotional experience.
Why These Emotional Combos Work:
Content that goes viral doesn’t just make viewers feel something—it makes them feel strongly while taking them on an emotional rollercoaster. High-arousal emotions (both positive and negative) grab attention, while the element of surprise keeps people engaged and adds an unforgettable twist. The result? Content that demands to be shared.
When crafting your next piece of content, think about the emotions you’re aiming to evoke and how you can combine them in unexpected, impactful ways. These emotional recipes are your roadmap to virality. 🚀
Source: Harvard Business Review