Speaking of Psychology The benefits of solitude, with Thuy-vy Nguyen, PhD, and Netta Weinstein, PhD
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Jun 5, 2024 Psychologists Thuy-vy Nguyen and Netta Weinstein discuss the benefits and challenges of solitude, including its impact on emotions and stress levels. They explore the difference between solitude and loneliness, why some people crave solitude more than others, and the stigma against being alone.
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You Bring Relationships Into Solitude
- People can still feel strong social emotions alone because memories and reflections bring relational feelings into solitude.
- Solitude often carries prior social experiences and can evoke shame or embarrassment via recollection.
Stigma Roots In History
- Historical and cultural narratives treat solitude as punishment or stigma, shaping fear of being alone in public.
- That stigma makes people worry they'll be judged or seen as a 'loner.'
Choose Active Solitude Activities
- Prefer doing an activity when alone rather than only sitting with thoughts if you feel uncomfortable.
- Offer young people structured solitude (reading or activity) over enforced 'just think' periods.