Reader-response theory is a literary approach that emphasizes the reader's role in interpreting a text. It suggests that meaning is not solely found within the text itself but is created through the interaction between the reader and the text. This theory highlights how individual experiences, emotions, and perspectives shape one's understanding of literature. This approach contrasts with traditional literary theories that focus on the author's intent or the text's inherent meaning. Proponents of reader-response theory, such as Louise Rosenblatt, argue that each reader brings unique insights, making the reading experience subjective and personal.