Escapism

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Escapism
Pronunciation: is-'kA-"pi-z&m
Habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine.

Many forms of escapism exist in today's busy world: as people work harder, they need to play harder, and the entertainment industry caters to that need. Examples of escapist entertainment include movies and fiction literature (usually fantasy, romance, or comedy in genre), music (songs that make the listener happier or forget his or her problems), television, video games, etc.

Escapism in the media is noted to become more popular in times of economic or other hardship, such as the Great Depression era or following September 11, 2001.