Bernard Herrmann's score can be scary and suspenseful. The stabbing violins in the iconic shower scene are startling and intense.
This film contains substantial suspense that at times transcends the plot. Although the story is engrossing, a good portion of the atmosphere arises from scenery and music, which alone may frighten younger viewers. This does not take into consideration the film's depictions of violence, that aren't graphic. The most blatant instance of violence occurs relatively early on and serves to heighten the suspense of the rest of the film.
Many scenes in the movie are frightening.