Less leisurely reading for pleasure and increased screen usage observed in Americans: Research Findings

In a significant revelation, a new study published in the journal iScience has shed light on the decline in reading activity in the United States. The study, conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts and titled "Reading at Risk: A Survey of Literary Reading in America," has raised concerns about the impact of this decline on health, well-being, and literacy.

Dr. Raihan El-Naas, a board-certified internal medicine physician and endocrinology fellow, who is a member of our Medical Unit, commented on the study, stating that adult reading habits should be given due attention because of their potential effects on health and well-being.

The study found that the share of people who pick up a book, magazine, or e-reader every day dropped about 3% per year. This trend is likely tied to the rise of digital media, according to the study's authors. In fact, another study conducted by researchers from University College London and the University of Florida found that reading for pleasure in the United States has decreased by 40% over the past 20 years.

The study analyzed surveys from over 230,000 Americans aged 15 and older between 2003 and 2023, tracking their daily reading habits. Those who did read spent more time doing so, averaging more than 90 minutes daily, according to the study.

The study also found that reading declined more sharply among Black Americans, those with less education or lower incomes, and people in rural areas. Jill Sonke, one of the study's lead authors, stated that the study highlights the lack of reading for children, particularly the importance of reading to them.

Reading with children was rare, with only 2% of adults reporting doing so on average every day, according to the study. However, Sonke emphasized that reading to children is an important time for bonding, relaxation, and stimulating their interest in reading and imagination.

The study's authors claim that reading for pleasure is a health-promoting activity. They link reading to stronger language skills, reasoning, and empathy. Participating in the arts, including reading, has been linked to improved health outcomes such as well-being, social cohesion, and mental health.

Moreover, the study suggests that reading has a correlation with reductions in time spent on digital media. The National Literacy Trust advises setting aside 10 minutes before bed for reading, carrying a book or e-reader during commutes, and making reading a shared family activity.

The National Literacy Trust, an independent charity based in London that promotes literacy, encourages these practices as a means to combat the decline in reading activity. They believe that by promoting reading, we can improve not only literacy rates but also health and well-being.

In conclusion, the study serves as a wake-up call to the importance of reading for pleasure and the potential negative effects of a decline in this activity. By promoting reading and implementing strategies to encourage it, we can help combat this trend and improve the health, well-being, and literacy of individuals in the United States.

Less leisurely reading for pleasure and increased screen usage observed in Americans: Research Findings