When i started hiking solo, my reason was just for something to do and get out of the house. I got told it wasnt safe and asked why i couldnt just be normal and go to the pub etc as it would be far safer.
Ill take my chances with the murderer hiding in a bush miles from anywhere, just waiting on me to come along.
I can confirm not to watch Dog soldiers, or any scary movie. An active imagination and plenty of fuel is not a good combination when you hear an odd noise at night. I have broke into a run at one point when out late at night in the middle of nowhere,and probably wont be the only time