How Stories Change Us:A Developmental Science of Stories from Fiction and Real Life

In How Stories Change Us, developmental psychologist Elaine Reese synthesises leading scientific research on the ways stories shape human development across the lifespan. Drawing on decades of work—including her longitudinal Origins of Memory study—Reese shows that stories from both fiction and real life engage fundamental brain processes involved in memory, imagination, social understanding and identity formation. Stories from books, film, television and games can promote empathy, perspective-taking and prosocial behaviour, while real-life stories contribute to mental and physical wellbeing and help individuals make sense of their lives.

Reese also explores the benefits and risks of different story forms, noting that violent or stereotyped narratives can reinforce prejudice and that misleading real-world stories (such as misinformation) can distort memory and judgement. Her developmental lens highlights how story engagement begins in early childhood and continues to influence thought and behaviour into old age, offering insights into how educators, parents and communities can foster healthier narrative environments.

For the Telling Your Stories Project, this book provides robust, evidence-based grounding for the central premise that stories are formative forces in learning, identity, and relational development. It affirms that thoughtfully selected and facilitated storytelling practices can enhance wellbeing, deepen understanding, and support social and cognitive growth across diverse contexts.