Science fiction builds mental resiliency in young readers

[Judi Lynn]

By Esther Jones 19 hours ago

Young people who are “hooked” on watching fantasy or reading science fiction may be on to something.


Young people who are “hooked” on watching fantasy or reading science fiction may be on to something. Contrary to a common misperception that reading this genre is an unworthy practice, reading science fiction and fantasy may help young people cope, especially with the stress and anxiety of living through the COVID-19 pandemic.

I am a professor with research interests in the social, ethical and political messages in science fiction. In my book “Medicine and Ethics in Black Women’s Speculative Fiction,” I explore the ways science fiction promotes understanding of human differences and ethical thinking.

While many people may not consider science fiction, fantasy or speculative fiction to be “literary,” research shows that all fiction can generate critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence for young readers. Science fiction may have a power all its own.

Literature as a moral mirror
Historically, parents have considered literature “good” for young people if it provides moral guidance that reflects their own values. This belief has been the catalyst for many movements to censor particular books for nearly as long as books have been published.

More:
https://www.space.com/science-fiction-builds-mental-resiliency-in-young-readers.html

[wcmagumba]

1. They "Grok" nt

[Beartracks]

4. +1000

[Bernardo de La Paz]

2. Exercising imagination has powerful benefits. "Great Again" is back to the 1950s; no imagination

An African-American President or a woman President was too much for them to contemplate and they rejected both vehemently.

Note: my screen name is after a science-fiction character from a favourite novel.

[Judi Lynn]

5. Thanks for telling the origin of your screen name. Have wondered about it multiple times!

Haven't read the book, the name is distinctive.

[mopinko]

3. sheesh. didnt this person ever hear of star trek.

building a better world was the whole damn point.

[Backseat Driver]

6. My just turned 10 grandson is reading a graphic novel based on

Homer's epic poem,"The Odyssey" The illustrations are magnificent, and the reading level "advanced" for a 10-year-old. Wonder if reading Sci-Fi and Graphic Novels of history w/Greek mythology gods/goddesses would also develop those critical skills. Hmmm...