📄 Abstract
The connection between narrative engagement and social cognition has long been in the centre of the psychological research, but the specific impact of long-term preferences in reading on multidimensional empathy is a complex field. The dissertation will study the association between primary reading behavior, namely the dichotomy between narrative fiction and informational non-fiction, and the level of empathy in young adults between the age of 18 and 30. By using a comparative cross-sectional study design, 60 respondents were grouped on their self-reported preferences in reading and their results were evaluated using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). The paper assesses three main facets of empathy Empathic Concern, Perspectives taking, and Personal Distress. It aimed at determining the existence of relationship between frequent consumption of fictional stories and increased affective and cognitive empathy compared to an inclination to use non-fictional content.
🏷️ Keywords
📚 How to Cite:
Ms. Manya Singh, Ms.Reetika Pal , FICTION READING AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THEORY OF MIND IN YOUNG ADULTS , Volume 12 , Issue 5, May 2026, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) ,