Reading fiction has unique benefits for language and empathy
What happens in your brain when you read? And can it help you navigate real life? This is what science tells us.
Melanie Saward, an Aboriginal romance novelist, believes fiction allows readers to confront and grow from parts of themselves they typically avoid. As a Bigambul and Wakka Wakka woman and academic, she recognizes fiction's power to challenge biases that have been ingrained through societal upbringing. Scientific studies reveal that reading fiction increases empathy by exposing readers to new perspectives, which correlates with better brain health and cognitive function, especially in children and the elderly.
The process of reading, according to Lili Yu, a Macquarie University lecturer, involves connecting visual and phonological information to the word's meaning, a skill that enhances memory, vocabulary, and understanding of word nuances. Raymond Mar, a professor at York University, notes that fiction is a stronger predictor of verbal abilities than non-fiction, suggesting fiction significantly influences educational and career success.
Beyond language development, reading fiction fosters empathy, perspective-taking, and social awareness, as studies show the same brain regions are engaged when reading fiction and understanding others. Fiction also offers social knowledge, as evidenced by its positive impact on adolescents and older adults. Whether through traditional books or audiobooks, the content's relevance outweighs the format.
To maximize benefits, Saward recommends diversifying one's reading choices by exploring perspectives outside one's comfort zone.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
