I think most of my more recent stuff could be considered horror; they're pretty psychologically dark with added demons and violence. Most of it is likely still working on my own "stuff," but actual horror movies and books don't have much of an impact on me--I think I go more into analyzation mode rather than an emotional mode.

Actually, I read slush for JJA's Nightmare magazine (yeah, I've been on a horror streak lately) and what is more squicky and hard to read for me is character POV's that are offensive or demeaning in a way that reads like the author doesn't know it's offensive or demeaning. Otherwise, violence and gore don't get to me (though there was one story with some vivid physical descriptions that made me go EEEEEWWW!!! in a good way.)

Anyhoo. I liked this post and the idea of horror being empowering. Have to go work on another dark book now. :>p