A fantasy buff or romance lover? Psychologist reveals what the genre of books you read say about you

It is often said that one should never judge a book by its cover. This sentiment holds not only for books but also for the individuals who read them. Despite this, the genres people choose to read can reflect certain aspects of their interests and personalities.

Dr Roshan Mansukhani, a therapist and counsellor based in Mumbai, pointed out that patterns in genre preferences might provide insights into a person’s mindset and personality traits.

Book genres and their connection with your personality

Different book genres often capture various aspects of human experience and curiosity. For example, a preference for science fiction might indicate an individual’s fascination with futuristic concepts and imaginative possibilities, while a love for historical fiction might reflect a deep interest in understanding past human experiences and cultures.

Dr Mansukhani explained, “The intellectual mind is far more complex and expansive than we typically realise”. Genres like science fiction use a unique language and structure, just as historical fiction presents a different way of engaging with the past, he said.

Each book genre represents a different facet of the human experience. (Source: Freepik)

The genres people gravitate towards can, to some extent, reveal how they view the world. Dr Mansukhani elaborated regarding a person’s genre preference does not merely reflect a superficial interest but can indicate a deeper cognitive and emotional pattern. Science fiction enthusiasts, for instance, might be seen as imaginative and forward-thinking, while those drawn to historical fiction might exhibit a penchant for learning from the past.

Dr Mansukhani noted that, “Science fiction and historical fiction represent distinct ways of engaging with the world. Where science fiction might stimulate thoughts about future possibilities and innovations, historical fiction connects readers to the narratives of past societies and events”.

This distinction highlights that preferences for genres can be less about the content of the books themselves and more about what those preferences signify about the reader’s worldview.

Dr Mansukhani stated, “It is the patterns and choices which we make that form the basis for our understanding of the world, and these choices are often shaped by the genres we are drawn to”.

How can understanding the reason behind your preference help?

Understanding one’s genre preferences can serve therapeutic purposes and aid in personal development. Books, through their various genres, offer opportunities for self-reflection and growth.

According to Dr Mansukhani, “Genres, in their own ways, can be therapeutic. Music, for instance, connects all beings and can be a powerful tool for personal exploration. Reading across genres can also be a means of personal development”.

Dr Mansukhani advocated for exploring a variety of genres as a way to broaden one’s horizons and avoid the pitfalls of overindulgence. He observed moderation as the key.

As Dr Mansukhani aptly puts it, “Genres provide a window into the reader’s mind and interests, but they should be viewed as one aspect of a broader personality rather than a definitive measure.” By exploring various genres, individuals can enhance their understanding of themselves and others, fostering a more nuanced appreciation of different ways of thinking and living.

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