Reading books is an enjoyable activity, yet many people, particularly adolescents, choose not to engage in it. Have you ever wondered what drives some to pick up a book while others avoid it? A study by Wilkinson et al. (2020) explored this question, focusing on why 15- and 16-year-olds opt for or against reading printed books—excluding e-books or digital formats.
Study overview
The researchers adopted a qualitative approach to uncover the reasons. They interviewed 39 high school students, blending professional-led interviews with a unique twist: training 10 adolescents to conduct peer-to-peer interviews. This method aimed to foster informal discussions, revealing authentic perspectives on reading habits and motivations. The findings from both interview types were then synthesized for a comprehensive analysis.
Findings
The study highlighted distinct reasons behind adolescents’ choices. For those who enjoy reading, books offer: relaxation, absorption, escapism, knowledge, empathy, social benefits (e.g. fostering friendships and sparking meaningful conversations) and excitement. Conversely, non-readers cited several barriers, including time constraints, lost habits, distractions, and commitment. Reading appeals differently to each individual, shaped by personal interests and circumstances. To encourage non-readers, we must first understand their specific barriers—whether it’s time, distractions, or disinterest—and address them effectively.
Disclaimer
This blog post is based on scientific research and is intended solely for public awareness.
For detailed information, please refer to the original article.
Wilkinson, K., Andries, V., Howarth,
D., Bonsall, J., Sabeti, S., & McGeown, S. (2020). Reading During
Adolescence: Why Adolescents Choose (or Do Not Choose) Books. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 64(2), 157-166. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/jaal.1065
Picture Credit.
Girl reading a book by Jean-Honoré Fragonard
