The song was originally written by guitarist Tom DeLonge and drummer Travis Barker for their early 2000s side project, Box Car Racer.
Following the release and touring in support of Blink-182's fourth album, Take Off Your Pants and Jacket, guitarist Tom DeLonge began writing songs with the intent of exploring more of his post-hardcore influences.
As he continued to write, DeLonge invited his bandmate and drummer, Travis Barker, and longtime friend, David Kennedy, to record with him, which would eventually become enough for them to start Box Car Racer.
While recording the album, DeLonge and Barker discussed the idea of releasing "Terrified" on One More Time..., which they ultimately agreed on.
[7] In an interview with Zane Lowe, the two called the song "a gem," and expressed how happy they were that they could have it on this album.
- Mark Hoppus[9]Paul Brown of Wall of Sound described "Terrified" as carrying "punk rock vibes", comparing the song structure to that of "Tiny Voices" by Box Car Racer.