The characters in "High Stakes" experience a blend of fascination and horror as they engage with disturbing content that leaves them feeling unsettled. One character expresses a sense of being traumatized, using the metaphor of "paranormal porn" to describe the bizarre scenario they are witnessing. This highlights their struggle between wanting to look away and the irresistible pull to keep watching.

Despite the unsettling nature of the situation, the characters find themselves compelled to stay engaged, comparing it to the phenomenon of witnessing a car accident. This juxtaposition of repulsion and curiosity illustrates the human tendency to be drawn to the shocking and bizarre, even when it leaves them feeling uncomfortable.