I like watching horror movies and thrillers even when I would get easily surprised. Watching these genres for a long time made me realize how much excitement is removed when I would lower down the volume during intense scenes. Although it's a hassle, I lower the volume too if the scene and sound effects are too loud then increase it again because the voice can't be heard afterwards.
Do you keep the sound as it is when you're watching or are you the type to change the volume from time to time?
No, I never thought of it. It sounds like a brilliant hack for watching those shows with kids who aren't too young to see it, but still get a little freaked out. Good one!
I feel a bit foolish for not thinking of this one myself. Of course the sound makes a difference. They use the music to hype it up and create tension.
I lower the volume as needed. There is nothing more annoying than listening to a quiet scene only to get bombarded by loud noises when the tone of the script/acting changes.