Abstract
Increasing empirical research on subjective experiences during narrative reading has suggested many effects of narratives, such as changed attitudes and beliefs, feelings of enjoyment or satisfaction, and improvements in social abilities. This paper focuses on “immersion in narratives” as one of the experiences in narrative reading. First, we review absorption, ow, and related conceptions regarding immersive experiences and suggest that immersion in narratives arises through the story representation and includes various components of experience, such as vivid imagery, empathy with the characters, and sympathy for the narrative. Next, we introduce recent studies of the e ect of reading narratives on social ability and report two studies of the relationship between immersion in narratives and mindreading. Finally, we discuss the human significance or impact of narrative reading and immersion in narratives.
