Why Do Teens (and Adults) Dislike Reading Books and What You Can About It
Reading is an enriching activity that can expand our knowledge, fuel creativity, and offer deep emotional experiences. Yet, for many, reading feels as daunting or unpleasant as solving complex math problems or preparing elaborate meals. This aversion to reading stems from several factors, including psychological, societal, and practical barriers. But with intentional effort, strategies can be implemented to cultivate a love for reading in even the most reluctant readers.
Why Do People Dislike Reading?
Reading requires concentration and effort unlike passive activities such as watching TV or scrolling through social media, reading is an active cognitive process. It requires focus, imagination, and the ability to process and retain information. This mental effort can feel overwhelming for many, especially in our modern era, where distractions are plentiful, and attention spans are shorter than ever. Studies show that the average human attention span has decreased over time, partly due to the constant influx of notifications and digital entertainment.
Reading is a learned skill unlike speaking, which comes naturally through observation. Humans are not biologically hardwired to read because it is a skill that must be learned and practiced, much like playing an instrument or solving equations. For those who have struggled with reading in school or have not been exposed to reading in their formative years, it may feel like an uphill battle. The process of decoding symbols into words and then understanding and interpreting them can be challenging, especially if foundational reading skills are weak.
Lack of interest or connection is another common barrier. Many people associate reading with schoolwork or academic obligations, which may not align with their personal interests. If someone doesn’t see the value in what they’re reading or doesn’t feel emotionally connected to the content, they’re likely to find it boring or tedious. For example, teenagers often find it hard to imagine what they read with their mind’s eye because they are more visually inclined to what is physically shown to them. They’d rather see a story unfold through videos or movies than engage their imagination to build the imagery in their minds.
It also requires time and stillness, two commodities that can feel scarce in our fast-paced world. Sitting still for more than 15 minutes with a book can feel "boring" or even counterproductive when there are seemingly more urgent or entertaining things to do. This perception reinforces the idea that reading is a chore rather than an enjoyable activity.
How to Cultivate an Interest in Reading
While the reasons for disliking reading are varied, there are actionable strategies to help individuals find joy in reading. Here are some effective methods:
1. Choose the Right Content
The first step to fostering a love for reading is ensuring that the material is both accessible and interesting to the reader. People are more likely to engage with books that:
Align with their interests or hobbies (e.g., fantasy novels for those who enjoy gaming, or self-help books for those seeking personal growth).
Are at an appropriate reading level to avoid frustration or boredom.
Span various genres, including nonfiction, to cater to diverse tastes.
For instance, someone who doesn't enjoy fiction might find enjoyment in memoirs, biographies, or books on science and history. Exploring short stories or graphic novels can also be a less intimidating entry point for new readers.
2. Encourage a Daily Habit
Building a habit is key to enjoying reading. Starting with just 10–15 minutes a day can make reading feel more achievable. Consistency matters more than duration in the beginning. Over time, as reading becomes a routine, it often becomes more enjoyable and rewarding.
James Clear, in his book Atomic Habits, emphasizes starting small to make habits stick. He suggests attaching the habit to an existing routine, such as reading after breakfast or before bedtime, to make it easier to incorporate.
3. Create Purposeful Engagement
Reading becomes more meaningful when it’s shared or discussed. Encouraging readers to:
Share their thoughts about a book with friends or family.
Join a book club or online reading group.
Write reflections or summaries about what they’ve read.
These activities not only deepen comprehension but also make the experience of reading more interactive and fun.
4. Make It Visual, Auditory, and Interactive
For visually inclined individuals, incorporating audiobooks or books with illustrations can bridge the gap between visual and text-based learning. Audiobooks, in particular, are a fantastic way to “read” while on the go and can enhance vocabulary, pronunciation, and comprehension. Listening to an emotionally driven narrator can also lead to deeper processing of the narrative and greater enjoyment, as studies have shown.
Pairing books with complementary movies or documentaries can also make the content come alive. For example, reading The Hunger Games and then watching the movie adaptation can enhance the experience by offering two perspectives on the same story.
5. Gamify the Reading Process
Turning reading into a game can motivate reluctant readers. Apps like Goodreads or reading challenges can provide a sense of accomplishment and encourage readers to set and achieve goals.
6. Reflect and Experiment
After finishing a book, encourage reflection. Ask questions like:
What did you learn?
How does it connect to your life or interests?
What would you like to read next?
This process of reflection reinforces the value of reading and helps readers see it as a tool for self-improvement and personal growth.
A Personal Note
As a teacher, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to integrate reading into students’ lives in ways that resonate with them. For example, when I encouraged teenagers to pick books related to their hobbies—whether it was sports, fantasy, or technology—they became more engaged. By framing reading as a gateway to exploring their passions, students discovered the joy of learning.
One of the most transformative methods I’ve used is the “Stop, Drop, and Go” approach:
Stop: Pause and reflect on what you’ve read.
Drop: Take notes or have a discussion to deepen understanding.
Go: Experiment with applying what you’ve learned in real life.
This method not only makes reading more interactive but also bridges the gap between theory and practice.
Disliking reading is often rooted in challenges with focus, access, or connection to the material. However, with the right strategies—such as selecting engaging content, fostering daily habits, and encouraging interactive discussions—reading can become an enjoyable and rewarding activity. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking to grow, reading holds the potential to transform your life. By shifting our perspective on reading from a chore to a tool for exploration and growth, we can unlock its transformative power.