2006-10-23 20:20:42 · 9 answers · asked by ABK_SCRUB 2 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Hi, Jessica,
It really depends more on the specifics of the situation, and why a person is withdrawn from the company of others.
Some people need constant stimulation from other people in order to remain healthy, while others are much more capable of being solitary by nature.
(In the MBTI, introverts and a few specific types are capable of being very very solitary. The Oldham personality system even has a Solitary-type personality. Personally, I am a very solitary person who enjoys my "alone" time and has to work to get out of my shell.)
However, there are also some personality disorders that exhibit isolation. The Avoidant personality desires relationships but feels too much anxiety to be around people. Schizoid people have an unhealthy aversion to being around anyone or having relationships. Paranoid types always suspect the motives of everyone around them and thus tend to isolate themselves.
When people isolate themselves from the wrong reasons (usually for self-protection of some sort), they go off-kilter. When you're not around other people to challenge your perceptions, you can easily "lose track of reality" and not have a clear understanding of what's happening, what people mean, how they really feel, how healthy you are, what your own reality is, etc.
Also, the majority of people find fulfillment (in a healthy way) by contributing to society. The less you're around people, the less likely it is you will have opportunities to contribute... or understand enough about people to convey your ideas in a way that makes sense to them.
We also define ourselves in terms of who we are not. Usually someone who COMPLETELY withdraws from others (no relationships) might seem strong but has a weak sense of self and feels like they might lose their identity by being around others, or feels that just being around others means they are no longer in control (which suggests they don't know how to "stand up for themselves" with other people, except by withdrawing).
There is a real longing and pleasure in being able to trust someone with who you are, and it's a healthy desire to want to be personally intimate with someone.
If you or someone else is completely withdrawn, with no friends or other human relationships, it's probably unhealthy and you should seek out someone to trust or seek professional help just to make sure you're on the right track.
Good luck, hope that helps.
2006-10-24 02:20:17 · answer #1 · answered by Jennywocky 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi jessica
that is such a difficult question that you are asking. There are so many complicated areas that you could explore, perhaps with someone you know and trust...
It is natural to want some "me-time" occasionally, but I would suggest that you get in contact with a counsellor or doctor who might be able to recommend someone who can help explore these thoughts with you.
If that's too difficult, try keeping a journal of thoughts and flipping back through the entries at the end of the week and see if you can find any patterns or recurring thoughts.
2006-10-23 20:47:00 · answer #2 · answered by leisel s 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are truely happy with yourself, then it's ok. I like my alone time. When I hang around people too much, it tends to cut into my piano playing time.
Be careful though, not enough physical exercise will make you depressed. Stay active! I work out alot on a treadmill, lift weights, stuff like that. Be sure you eat healthy too.
With these practices you can be alone and learn to love yourself. This is also a way to be more in tune with your body. And remember that if or when you feel ready accept people into your life again, do it, but wait until your ready. There's nothing wrong with this...
2006-10-23 20:38:47 · answer #3 · answered by sugarpacketchad 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Man is a social animal, and it is unhealthy mentally to live in complete isolation. Is being a hermit all that wonderful? Life sucks sometimes but you don't quit and run off to the hills.
2006-10-23 20:30:39 · answer #4 · answered by dantheman_028 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If this is just a personal preference and not an aversion to people then there is nothing wrong with it at all. People can be a real pain in the butt and it is good to get away at times.
If you prefer to be away all of the time but do not have a problem when you need to interact then there is nothing wrong.
:o)
Jerry
2006-10-23 22:33:35 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
have a heart dear........ there is nothing unhealthy or healthy in this world............. only thing is healthy for you is which gives you peace and satisfation of mind or when you feel happy........ we have all rights to live alone, without friends or lovers etc. etc.
its better to be alone than to feel alone in someone's company.
cheer up.....
2006-10-23 21:07:43 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You had better have something as wonderful to substitute for people in your life. I see the alternative as a half-life.
2006-10-23 20:54:07 · answer #7 · answered by Charlie Kicksass 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i dont think its unhealthy
your just a sociaphobe
2006-10-23 20:28:53 · answer #8 · answered by Gespacho 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
isnt that what a hermit is?
2006-10-23 20:31:50 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋