Adolorist

An adolorist is an individual who revels in or finds pleasure in pain, suffering, or emotional distress, either their own or that of others. This enjoyment can manifest in various ways, from experiencing intense physical sensations to immersing themselves in narratives of hardship. The term encompasses a broad spectrum of behaviors and motivations, ranging from masochism to a morbid fascination with the darker aspects of life. Often, this tendency can involve a complex interplay of emotions, including catharsis, escapism, or a distorted sense of control. The origins of the word may be drawn from latin dolor, meaning pain. The individual can also take delight in observing the pain and suffering of others, or even the pain of fictional characters in books or films.

Adolorist meaning with examples

• The film critic described the horror movie aficionado as an 'adolorist', finding genuine satisfaction in the graphic violence and suspense that unsettled most viewers. He argued that for them, the fear and adrenaline were a form of entertainment. They weren't just watching; they were savoring the intense emotional experience.
• The novelist explored the theme of an 'adolorist' in her latest book, a character who meticulously crafted scenarios of failure and heartbreak for the thrill of navigating his emotional wreckage. The book dissected the complex motivations behind this destructive habit.
• Despite her claims of empathy, her frequent viewing of tragedy news, the social commentator was described by her therapist as an adolorist, because of her visible thrill at seeing other people in hardship.
• The patient revealed a shocking history of self-harm during therapy, explaining that the physical pain was surprisingly therapeutic and that her actions had been a source of unexpected and disturbing relief; this had made her an adolorist.