Do lifelong readers enjoy cognitive and health benefits from reading fiction?
Monday, June 3, 2024.
Reading fiction has been linked to better linguistic skills, according to recent research.
It doesn't matter if the fiction is as fantastical as Harry Potter or as classic as Charles Dickens; people who read fiction for pleasure tend to have superior language skills.
This contrasts with folks who read solely for information, often out of necessity, who score lower on language tests.
The empathy and flexibility of avid readers
Studies have consistently shown that lifelong readers exhibit more empathy, less prejudice, and greater mental flexibility. Moreover, these readers are likely to enjoy longer, healthier lives. This connection between reading and enhanced cognitive abilities underscores the importance of reading for pleasure.
Decline in Reading for Pleasure
Unfortunately, reading for pleasure is a declining hobby as more people turn to video games and streaming media for entertainment. This shift away from reading fiction may have significant implications for cognitive and emotional health.
The Importance of Reading for Pleasure
Professor Sandra Martin-Chang, the study’s lead author, emphasizes the importance of reading for pleasure.
“It’s always very positive and heartening to give people permission to delve into the series that they like. I liken it to research that says chocolate is good for you: the guilty pleasure of reading fiction is associated with positive cognitive benefits and verbal outcomes.”
How the study was conducted
In the study, researchers surveyed 200 undergraduates about their reading motivations, obstacles, attitudes, and interests, in addition to testing their linguistic skills. The results clearly indicated that those who enjoyed reading had better verbal abilities. This benefit was specifically linked to reading fiction, not non-fiction.
Encouraging Young Readers
Professor Martin-Chang advocates for encouraging young people to read whatever interests them, as long as they enjoy it. “This ingrained interest, wanting to read something over and over again, feeling compelled to read an entire series, feeling connected to characters and authors, these are all good things.”
Final thoughts
Lifelong readers benefit cognitively and emotionally from their reading habits. Encouraging reading for pleasure, especially fiction, can lead to improved language skills, greater empathy, and healthier lives.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
References:
The study was published in Reading and Writing (Martin-Chang et al., 2021).
