Why Bibliotherapy Works

Emotion, Empathy and Critical Thinking in Reading Fiction

Abstract

The article explores bibliotherapy's theoretical underpinnings and mechanisms, arguing for its effectiveness in addressing psychological, social, and emotional challenges through literary fiction¹. Bibliotherapy diverges from traditional reading by targeting specific issues and employing structured therapeutic processes, such as engagement, identification, catharsis, and reflection. Modern theories, including cognitive literary studies and ethical literary perspectives, provide evidence for literature's ability to evoke empathy, critical thought, and emotional insight.

Drawing on natural narratology and neuroscience, the paper emphasizes the embodied nature of reading. It highlights how literary fiction activates the same cognitive and emotional mechanisms as real-life experiences, enabling readers to safely explore diverse scenarios. The text stresses the role of fictiveness and mimesis in creating safe psychological spaces for self-reflection, identification, and transformation. Additionally, narrative techniques – such as third-person narrative – foster empathy and immersive experiences, integral to bibliotherapy.

The article concludes that literary fiction's multilayered and reflective qualities make it uniquely suited for therapeutic contexts, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience. Bibliotherapy's utility extends to both clinical and non-clinical settings, offering a scientifically grounded method to enhance mental well-being amidst contemporary challenges such as societal stressors and the rise of social media's negative impacts.

1 The paper is the result of the research program P6-0265 Intercultural Literary Studies, funded by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).