Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin 263 — How 15 Minutes of Solitude Can Change Your Life with Professor Robert Coplan
Nov 10, 2025
Dr. Robert Coplan, a developmental psychologist and author of The Joy of Solitude, dives into the transformative power of alone time. He explains how solitude differs from loneliness and its essential benefits for well-being. Learn about the 'deactivation effect' that boosts emotions and creativity. Coplan shares fascinating insights on setting tech boundaries during personal time and how 15 minutes a day can enhance mental strength. He also discusses why solitude is vital for children and offers tips to embrace the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) over FOMO.
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The Brain's 'Deactivation Effect' In Solitude
- Solitude produces a 'deactivation effect' that reduces emotional intensity and mental noise.
- Letting your mind wander during solitude helps consolidate thoughts and sparks creative insights.
Use Tech Intentionally During Alone Time
- Use technology mindfully during solitude: turn off notifications and avoid constant social contact.
- Activities that feel engaging and autonomous produce solitude benefits, even if they use tech.
Students Preferred Shocks Over Empty 15 Minutes
- The Wilson study asked students to sit alone 15 minutes or self-administer shocks and many chose shocks.
- Robert Coplan calls it more about boredom and shows simple instructions can improve the solitude experience.
