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Definitions of Solitude in Everyday Life.

Definitions of Solitude in Everyday Life.

Authors :
Weinstein, Netta
Hansen, Heather
Nguyen, Thuy-vy
Source :
Personality & Social Psychology Bulletin; Dec2023, Vol. 49 Issue 12, p1663-1678, 16p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

What does it mean to be in solitude? Researchers building this nascent field are learning much about the potential affordances of solitude, but lack an agreed-upon definition or set of definitions. Arriving at that meaning is crucial to forming a solid foundation for studies that use both naturalistic and laboratory designs to explore outcomes of solitude. This study identified themes from semi-structured interviews with adults aged 19 to 80 from diverse backgrounds. We concluded that solitude is a state in which the dominant relationship is with the self. If not physically alone, people in solitude are mentally distanced from others and away from active technology-mediated interactions. Complete solitude involves both physical separation and inner focus, but solitude is best defined through a taxonomy that recognizes physical separation and internal focus as independent, sufficient characteristics. An internal focus benefits from (but is not defined by) balancing solitude with social time, quiet, and choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
01461672
Volume :
49
Issue :
12
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Personality & Social Psychology Bulletin
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
173550293
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/01461672221115941