Reading while on the toilet is a common habit for many men and boys, much to the chagrin of germaphobes and people who don’t read on the toilet. It can feel as though your son or husband spends a long, long time in the bathroom, scrolling through their Facebook feed, reading a book or diving into the news all while sitting on the can…in their own stink. Yuk! What exactly is the appeal of this habit, and why is it so popular for men in particular? We’ve come up with a couple theories:
1. No Interruptions
Reading in the bathroom is a surefire way for men and boys to read without any distractions. Husbands and young boys alike can read to their heart’s content without worrying about anyone bothering them. Sometimes the bathroom is the only refuge where people can enjoy some uninterrupted some peace and quiet.
2. A Strange Sense of Accomplishment
Perhaps reading while on the toilet gives men a sense of accomplishment for getting two things done at once, or maybe they think that they might as well read while they’re just sitting there.
3. Boredom
One possible reason for bringing reading material into the bathroom could simply be narrowed down to boredom. When nature calls, all other responsibilities and thoughts go on hold, and this sudden isolation from the busyness of life can cause significant boredom. Reading can be a distraction from their own thoughts (and stink!).
4. Actual Bathroom Issues
On particularly unfortunate days, men just know that they’re going to be in the bathroom for a while. Whether it’s due to an unsettling lunch or troublesome digestive problems, using the toilet can take quite some time under certain circumstances. Reading while sitting on the loo can help pass the time during the unpleasant process of excretion.
5. Avoidance of Work and Responsibilities
There may be a chance that men escape to the bathroom under the pretense of using the toilet when they’re really just using the time to read or play on their phone. This can be especially common in the workplace because the mens’ bathroom is usually a strict “no talking” zone. Escaping to the bathroom is a way for men to avoid conversations with annoying coworkers, or it can be a simple excuse for them to have some time alone for a few minutes. Know that it’s OK for men to read in the bathroom, so long as they remember to wash their hands!
Reading is the Best Revenge
Sick of your husband, boyfriend, son or housemate spending long periods of time in their bathroom retreat? Get even by losing yourself in your own book in a comfy chair. Visit JustKindleBooks.com for a nearly endless selection of free Kindle books. Who knows? You might just find the perfect read to occupy yourself when your own bathroom is occupied by your “diligent readers.”
