Abstract:

Numerous research studies indicate prevalence of reading failure in boys compared with girls. Reading failure is commonly linked to low academic achievement, pointing out that boys in early adolescence are the group most likely to state that reading is boring and that is commonly linked to school tasks. Literature review indicates that many adolescents, especially boys, are characterized as reluctant readers as they move to higher classes in the educational system. These readers may like reading but do not read for many reasons and thus may minimize their academic potential. Furthermore, literature indicate that reading is nurtured and developed, and the reader is developing according to the beliefs and attitudes expressed in his environment. Hence, it is particularly important to see what kind of support or motivation adolescents usually take from their peers, parents, teachers, and other role models. In this research study, we examine reading habits and various environmental influences on reading among adolescent boys in one elementary school in a large town in the southern part of Croatia. The research included three focus groups discussions with parents, teachers, librarians and boys in early adolescence, focusing on their understanding of boys reading habits and attitudes, reading motivation as well as environmental factors affecting reading. The semi-structured focus group discussions were taped and transcribed. The inductive content analysis method was used in this research. The content of the discussion is examined and the meaning and its particular implications were discovered. The study participants make a clear distinction between reading for pleasure and reading for school purpose. As boys grow up, their reading habits get limited. The main reason is the availability of alternative and more attractive options to choose for entertainment. Furthermore, in the context of the school system, it is commonly noticed that the books in the school curriculum are not appropriate for boys’ age and interest. In regards to reading choices, boys prefer, adventure, mystery, fantasy books, books with humor, comics, science fiction books or even encyclopaedic and how to books. The study results indicate ways in which reading experiences may be enriched, such as reading guidance programs, selection of appropriate books for the school reading lists, and provision of positive male role models.

Keywords:

Reading experiences, adolescent boys, focus group discussions, content analysis.