Literature improves emotional intelligence

A new study reveals that fans of literary fiction could be better at deciphering how others are feeling.
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The study, published by the journal Science, has found that reading literary fiction – not popular fiction, so put your Dan Browns down – might make you better at decoding how the people around you are feeling.

‘Cultural practices’ reads the study, ‘May function to promote and refine interpersonal sensitivity throughout our lives. One such practice is reading fiction.’

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Sarah Adams
About the Author
Sarah Adams is a media, film and television junkie. She is the former deputy editor of ArtsHub Australia and now works in digital communications - telling research stories across multiple platforms - in the higher education sector. Follow her @sezadams