Solitude vs Loneliness: What is the difference between solitude and loneliness? Describe with reference to examples from your own life, people you know, and well-known others.
Abstract
Being alone can lead to either loneliness or solitude. A person’s reaction to being alone, that is whether they experience loneliness or solitude, can change each time they experience aloneness. Loneliness, unlike solitude, can also occur when people are not alone. Loneliness is a self-perceived state in which a person’s network of relationships is either smaller and or less satisfying than desired. Solitude is a satisfying state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company. Loneliness can produce many negative consequences whereas solitude has largely positive effects. Learning to appreciate spending time with one self is the most effective way to reduce loneliness. All human beings need some periods of solitude. People do, however, vary greatly in the amount of aloneness they feel comfortable with.
Introduction
Humans are social and cultural beings (Rosenblum, 2007). In the past people who lived and worked in groups were more likely to be able to fight of enemies when searching for food, to have the strength to protect their home and each other from intruders. Those in groups were therefore more likely to survive. Evolution, as a result, has led to people now preferring to go through life in groups. Humans now live, work, travel and do most other things in groups (Buchholz, 1998). Importantly though, people do need to be able to spend some time alone (Clarke, 2005). Being alone, or aloneness, involves physical separation or isolation from all other human beings (Black, 2003). A quiet fear of being alone has developed amongst people today (Mendelson & Yeshiva, 1990). However, more and more people are living, travelling and dining alone (Rosenblum, 2007). Some of these people chose to engage in these experiences alone in order to satisfy their personal needs and spend time in their own company. Others feel they have no alternative. Thus, aloneness can be chosen or it can be forced upon an individual. This choice, or lack there of, is a significant predictor of whether aloneness results in loneliness or solitude for any given individual (Brown, 1998). Loneliness is forced upon people and has many negative consequences. Solitude is a voluntary retreat from the company of others and is beneficial in many ways (Marano, 2003). It is important to note however, that being alone does not always produce the same stable characteristic of either loneliness or solitude. A person’s reaction to being alone can change each time they experience aloneness. That is, in one situation an individual may feel extremely lonely due to isolation from others, however, this same individual may feel a great sense of enjoyment and solitude when alone in an alternative situation (Rokach, 2000).
What is Loneliness
Each human being falls somewhere along a spectrum of comfort in being with themselves and others. Some people enjoy being alone, and for a large amount of time, whilst others are terrified of the same scenario (Rosenblum, 2007). Loneliness generally occurs when the amount of time spent alone exceeds an individual’s personal comfort. Loneliness is a negative state marked by a sense of isolation. It is the painful awareness that one lacks close and meaningful contact with others (Black, 2003). Marano (2003) stated loneliness is a harsh punishment, a deficient state, a state of discontent and an awareness of excess aloneness. Being isolated from other people is a likely though not essential component of loneliness.
It is possible to be surrounded by people and still feel lonely (Jones, 1981). Loneliness in this case, results from the depth of social interaction rather than the amount. When a person feels they do not have enough meaningful relationships they become lonely (Brown, 1998 ). Marilyn Munroe was a well known model, actress and singer who was admired and envied by many. She is a prime example of being lonely without being alone. Despite the majority of her life being spent in the public eye, constantly surrounded by large crowds, fans and the media, Marilyn suffered from extreme loneliness. She had three failed marriages and complicated relations with her family (Henry, 2007). Marilyn longed for more meaningful relationships. Even a person who has quite a few close relationships can suffer from loneliness if they desire additional relationships. Consequently, loneliness can be defined as a self-perceived state in which a person’s network of relationships is either smaller and or less satisfying than desired (Jones, 1981).
What is Solitude
Both the need to be alone and to socialise with others are essential to human happiness and survival (Buchholz, 1998). Solitude is the state of being alone without being lonely (Marano, 2003). It is the capacity to cope positively with time spent alone and the ability to enjoy inward quietness (Hollenhorst, Frank & Watson, 1994). Solitude is a desirable state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company (Black, 2003). Buccholz (1998) recognised that sleep is nature’s way of ensuring solitude. During the solitude of sleep the unconscious mind is able to process and unravel problems. Solitude is required to figure out puzzles, events and situations, to generate new discoveries and to discover unique answers. A friend of mine, Helen, deeply recognises the benefits of solitude. If given the choice she sleeps in all morning, not as a result of tiredness or depression, but in an effort to maintain the peacefulness of sleeping or just lying in bed undisturbed. Though Helen works in a public setting, she spends a large amount of her free time alone. Helen is completely capable of enjoying her own company and does not often feel lonely.
Differences between Loneliness and Solitude
From the outside loneliness and solitude can look a lot alike (Marano, 2003). The state of aloneness is often the same whether an individual is suffering loneliness or enjoying solitude. The difference lies in the person’s attitudes, perceptions and appraisals of this aloneness (Black, 2003). Loneliness occurs when the aloneness is attributed to not having anyone to spend time with or to enjoy each others company. Loneliness is a fear of aloneness. On the other hand, solitude results when the person enjoys this time spent alone (Karnick, 2005; see Appendix A for a photographic representation of the difference between loneliness and solitude). Notably, aloneness is a necessary condition of solitude whereas loneliness can occur with or without it (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). The consequences, of loneliness and solitude also differ. Loneliness can produce many negative consequences whereas solitude has largely positive effects (Hollenhorst et al., 1994).
Negative consequences of Loneliness
Loneliness has a negative impact on many aspects of human life. Mother Theresa believed the most prevalent disease that the world faces is not cancer but rather loneliness (Aquino, 2003).Loneliness can be detrimental to mental health as well as overall quality of life (Karnick, 2005). Chronically lonely people tend to suffer from a viscous cycle, beginning with low self-esteem leading to loneliness which then further reduces self-esteem (Brown, 1998). Furthermore, loneliness has been linked to depression, anxiety, interpersonal hostility and, in extreme cases, to suicide (Hansson, Jones, Carpenter & Remondet, 1986 cited in Rokach, 2000). Marilyn Munroe was believed to have suffered from severe depression. Sadly her lifestyle of fame and fortune was not sufficient to combat her loneliness, in fact it likely contributed to it. In the end Marilyn’s depression led to her, suspected suicidal, death at the young age of thirty-six (Henry, 2007).Loneliness has also been found to produce an increased vulnerability to physical health problems, such as heart disease (Rosenblum, 2007). Especially when paired with stress, loneliness can weaken the immune system leading to health deterioration. Malnutrition, weight loss or gain, fatigue and drug and alcohol dependency are also often associated with extreme loneliness (Brown, 1998). I remember a boy I once knew, when I was a child, who was never really able to make friends. He always seemed sad and alone. Years later I now hear he is still unable to sustain friendships and has turned to drugs for companionship, they make him feel happier. However, in the long run this negative path will likely increase his sense of loneliness rather than reduce it.
Positive consequences of Solitude
Spending time alone in solitude is extremely beneficial. It helps to develop a strong sense of self and the ability to distinguish personal thoughts, feelings and judgements from those of others (Clarke, 2005). Solitude is an opportunity for reflection, personal growth and development, self-realisation and self-discovery (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). It enables people to regulate and adjust their lives, to be aware of and satisfy their deepest personal needs, feelings and impulses (Buchholz, 1998). Relaxation can be achieved in solitude by using the time to block out hectic schedules and to relieve external pressures (Clarke, 2005). Solitude is necessary for many leisure activities that produce enjoyment and satisfaction such as reading a book, meditating and gardening (Marano, 2003). My friend Helen, who finds great satisfaction in solitude, enjoys to read, to listen to music and to go hiking in her alone time. Solitude also facilitates bereavement, mourning and prayer (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). Solitude is refreshing for the body and soul (Marano, 2003).
One of the most recognised benefits of solitude is its ability to stimulate the creative mind (Hollenhorst et al., 1994; Marano, 2003). Bucholz (1998) noted that the most creative teenagers were those who valued solitude. Indeed, many artists, poets and writers prefer to work in isolation from distractions and other people to allow for optimal performance from their creative minds (Goldberg, 1989). Claude Monet a famous painter from the 1800’s was especially fond of solitude. In fact he often captured the essence of solitude in his paintings of nature (see Appendix B for some of Monet’s famous paintings). He sat in solitude for hours, if not days, embracing the company of his paints and the environment that surrounded him. In addition, he enjoyed to garden, which promotes a sense of solitude also (Gifford, 2007).
Concept map displaying differences between loneliness and solitude as well as positive and negative consequences
Suggestions for reducing loneliness and benefiting from solitude
The ability to profit from solitude requires a sense of self that can survive in the absence of immediate social reinforcement (Long, Seburn, Averill & More, 2003). Learning to appreciate spending time with one self is the most effective way to reduce loneliness (Clarke, 2005). Utilising activities that can be completed alone which are of interest to the lonely individual, perhaps gardening, taking walks, painting, exercising or building things, is a promising method of achieving this. Engaging in activities that both fill in time, that would have otherwise been spent alone, and that encourage social interaction is also beneficial (Buchholz, 1998). Participating in group activities where cooperation with others is required to achieve the desired end result of the task and where members of the group provide strong encouragement to each other will aid in reducing loneliness (Brown, 1998). Possible examples include joining a class where collective learning is promoted, joining a gym or starting a new hobby which involves interaction with other people. Social skills training may prove valuable to some who suffer loneliness due to their inability to interact effectively with other people.
Conclusion
In summary, solitude and loneliness both result from aloneness. Loneliness is a negative self-perceived state marked by a sense of isolation (Jones, 1981). In contrast, solitude is a positive state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company (Black, 2003). Aloneness is a necessary condition of solitude but loneliness can occur with or without being alone. Loneliness can lead to serious mental and physical illness (Brown, 2007; Hansson et al., 1986 cited in Rokach, 2000; Brown, 1998). Solitude aids in personal growth and development, relaxation and awareness of personal needs. Solitude restores body and mind, loneliness depletes them (Marano, 2003). Loneliness can be reduced by learning to appreciate one’s own company (Clarke, 2005). All human beings need periods of solitude. People do, however, vary greatly in the amount of aloneness they need and feel comfortable with (Rosenblum, 2007).
(Word Count: 1468)
Abstract
Being alone can lead to either loneliness or solitude. A person’s reaction to being alone, that is whether they experience loneliness or solitude, can change each time they experience aloneness. Loneliness, unlike solitude, can also occur when people are not alone. Loneliness is a self-perceived state in which a person’s network of relationships is either smaller and or less satisfying than desired. Solitude is a satisfying state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company. Loneliness can produce many negative consequences whereas solitude has largely positive effects. Learning to appreciate spending time with one self is the most effective way to reduce loneliness. All human beings need some periods of solitude. People do, however, vary greatly in the amount of aloneness they feel comfortable with.
Introduction
Humans are social and cultural beings (Rosenblum, 2007). In the past people who lived and worked in groups were more likely to be able to fight of enemies when searching for food, to have the strength to protect their home and each other from intruders. Those in groups were therefore more likely to survive. Evolution, as a result, has led to people now preferring to go through life in groups. Humans now live, work, travel and do most other things in groups (Buchholz, 1998). Importantly though, people do need to be able to spend some time alone (Clarke, 2005). Being alone, or aloneness, involves physical separation or isolation from all other human beings (Black, 2003). A quiet fear of being alone has developed amongst people today (Mendelson & Yeshiva, 1990). However, more and more people are living, travelling and dining alone (Rosenblum, 2007). Some of these people chose to engage in these experiences alone in order to satisfy their personal needs and spend time in their own company. Others feel they have no alternative. Thus, aloneness can be chosen or it can be forced upon an individual. This choice, or lack there of, is a significant predictor of whether aloneness results in loneliness or solitude for any given individual (Brown, 1998). Loneliness is forced upon people and has many negative consequences. Solitude is a voluntary retreat from the company of others and is beneficial in many ways (Marano, 2003). It is important to note however, that being alone does not always produce the same stable characteristic of either loneliness or solitude. A person’s reaction to being alone can change each time they experience aloneness. That is, in one situation an individual may feel extremely lonely due to isolation from others, however, this same individual may feel a great sense of enjoyment and solitude when alone in an alternative situation (Rokach, 2000).
What is Loneliness
Each human being falls somewhere along a spectrum of comfort in being with themselves and others. Some people enjoy being alone, and for a large amount of time, whilst others are terrified of the same scenario (Rosenblum, 2007). Loneliness generally occurs when the amount of time spent alone exceeds an individual’s personal comfort. Loneliness is a negative state marked by a sense of isolation. It is the painful awareness that one lacks close and meaningful contact with others (Black, 2003). Marano (2003) stated loneliness is a harsh punishment, a deficient state, a state of discontent and an awareness of excess aloneness. Being isolated from other people is a likely though not essential component of loneliness.
It is possible to be surrounded by people and still feel lonely (Jones, 1981). Loneliness in this case, results from the depth of social interaction rather than the amount. When a person feels they do not have enough meaningful relationships they become lonely (Brown, 1998 ). Marilyn Munroe was a well known model, actress and singer who was admired and envied by many. She is a prime example of being lonely without being alone. Despite the majority of her life being spent in the public eye, constantly surrounded by large crowds, fans and the media, Marilyn suffered from extreme loneliness. She had three failed marriages and complicated relations with her family (Henry, 2007). Marilyn longed for more meaningful relationships. Even a person who has quite a few close relationships can suffer from loneliness if they desire additional relationships. Consequently, loneliness can be defined as a self-perceived state in which a person’s network of relationships is either smaller and or less satisfying than desired (Jones, 1981).
What is Solitude
Both the need to be alone and to socialise with others are essential to human happiness and survival (Buchholz, 1998). Solitude is the state of being alone without being lonely (Marano, 2003). It is the capacity to cope positively with time spent alone and the ability to enjoy inward quietness (Hollenhorst, Frank & Watson, 1994). Solitude is a desirable state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company (Black, 2003). Buccholz (1998) recognised that sleep is nature’s way of ensuring solitude. During the solitude of sleep the unconscious mind is able to process and unravel problems. Solitude is required to figure out puzzles, events and situations, to generate new discoveries and to discover unique answers. A friend of mine, Helen, deeply recognises the benefits of solitude. If given the choice she sleeps in all morning, not as a result of tiredness or depression, but in an effort to maintain the peacefulness of sleeping or just lying in bed undisturbed. Though Helen works in a public setting, she spends a large amount of her free time alone. Helen is completely capable of enjoying her own company and does not often feel lonely.
Differences between Loneliness and Solitude
From the outside loneliness and solitude can look a lot alike (Marano, 2003). The state of aloneness is often the same whether an individual is suffering loneliness or enjoying solitude. The difference lies in the person’s attitudes, perceptions and appraisals of this aloneness (Black, 2003). Loneliness occurs when the aloneness is attributed to not having anyone to spend time with or to enjoy each others company. Loneliness is a fear of aloneness. On the other hand, solitude results when the person enjoys this time spent alone (Karnick, 2005; see Appendix A for a photographic representation of the difference between loneliness and solitude). Notably, aloneness is a necessary condition of solitude whereas loneliness can occur with or without it (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). The consequences, of loneliness and solitude also differ. Loneliness can produce many negative consequences whereas solitude has largely positive effects (Hollenhorst et al., 1994).
Negative consequences of Loneliness
Loneliness has a negative impact on many aspects of human life. Mother Theresa believed the most prevalent disease that the world faces is not cancer but rather loneliness (Aquino, 2003).Loneliness can be detrimental to mental health as well as overall quality of life (Karnick, 2005). Chronically lonely people tend to suffer from a viscous cycle, beginning with low self-esteem leading to loneliness which then further reduces self-esteem (Brown, 1998). Furthermore, loneliness has been linked to depression, anxiety, interpersonal hostility and, in extreme cases, to suicide (Hansson, Jones, Carpenter & Remondet, 1986 cited in Rokach, 2000). Marilyn Munroe was believed to have suffered from severe depression. Sadly her lifestyle of fame and fortune was not sufficient to combat her loneliness, in fact it likely contributed to it. In the end Marilyn’s depression led to her, suspected suicidal, death at the young age of thirty-six (Henry, 2007).Loneliness has also been found to produce an increased vulnerability to physical health problems, such as heart disease (Rosenblum, 2007). Especially when paired with stress, loneliness can weaken the immune system leading to health deterioration. Malnutrition, weight loss or gain, fatigue and drug and alcohol dependency are also often associated with extreme loneliness (Brown, 1998). I remember a boy I once knew, when I was a child, who was never really able to make friends. He always seemed sad and alone. Years later I now hear he is still unable to sustain friendships and has turned to drugs for companionship, they make him feel happier. However, in the long run this negative path will likely increase his sense of loneliness rather than reduce it.
Positive consequences of Solitude
Spending time alone in solitude is extremely beneficial. It helps to develop a strong sense of self and the ability to distinguish personal thoughts, feelings and judgements from those of others (Clarke, 2005). Solitude is an opportunity for reflection, personal growth and development, self-realisation and self-discovery (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). It enables people to regulate and adjust their lives, to be aware of and satisfy their deepest personal needs, feelings and impulses (Buchholz, 1998). Relaxation can be achieved in solitude by using the time to block out hectic schedules and to relieve external pressures (Clarke, 2005). Solitude is necessary for many leisure activities that produce enjoyment and satisfaction such as reading a book, meditating and gardening (Marano, 2003). My friend Helen, who finds great satisfaction in solitude, enjoys to read, to listen to music and to go hiking in her alone time. Solitude also facilitates bereavement, mourning and prayer (Hollenhorst et al., 1994). Solitude is refreshing for the body and soul (Marano, 2003).
One of the most recognised benefits of solitude is its ability to stimulate the creative mind (Hollenhorst et al., 1994; Marano, 2003). Bucholz (1998) noted that the most creative teenagers were those who valued solitude. Indeed, many artists, poets and writers prefer to work in isolation from distractions and other people to allow for optimal performance from their creative minds (Goldberg, 1989). Claude Monet a famous painter from the 1800’s was especially fond of solitude. In fact he often captured the essence of solitude in his paintings of nature (see Appendix B for some of Monet’s famous paintings). He sat in solitude for hours, if not days, embracing the company of his paints and the environment that surrounded him. In addition, he enjoyed to garden, which promotes a sense of solitude also (Gifford, 2007).
Concept map displaying differences between loneliness and solitude as well as positive and negative consequences
Suggestions for reducing loneliness and benefiting from solitude
The ability to profit from solitude requires a sense of self that can survive in the absence of immediate social reinforcement (Long, Seburn, Averill & More, 2003). Learning to appreciate spending time with one self is the most effective way to reduce loneliness (Clarke, 2005). Utilising activities that can be completed alone which are of interest to the lonely individual, perhaps gardening, taking walks, painting, exercising or building things, is a promising method of achieving this. Engaging in activities that both fill in time, that would have otherwise been spent alone, and that encourage social interaction is also beneficial (Buchholz, 1998). Participating in group activities where cooperation with others is required to achieve the desired end result of the task and where members of the group provide strong encouragement to each other will aid in reducing loneliness (Brown, 1998). Possible examples include joining a class where collective learning is promoted, joining a gym or starting a new hobby which involves interaction with other people. Social skills training may prove valuable to some who suffer loneliness due to their inability to interact effectively with other people.
Conclusion
In summary, solitude and loneliness both result from aloneness. Loneliness is a negative self-perceived state marked by a sense of isolation (Jones, 1981). In contrast, solitude is a positive state of being alone where an individual provides themselves with sufficient company (Black, 2003). Aloneness is a necessary condition of solitude but loneliness can occur with or without being alone. Loneliness can lead to serious mental and physical illness (Brown, 2007; Hansson et al., 1986 cited in Rokach, 2000; Brown, 1998). Solitude aids in personal growth and development, relaxation and awareness of personal needs. Solitude restores body and mind, loneliness depletes them (Marano, 2003). Loneliness can be reduced by learning to appreciate one’s own company (Clarke, 2005). All human beings need periods of solitude. People do, however, vary greatly in the amount of aloneness they need and feel comfortable with (Rosenblum, 2007).
(Word Count: 1468)
References
Aquino, P. (2003). Lesson from experience: A disease called loneliness. Update, 67(7), 406-407.
Black, J. (2003). The difference between solitude and loneliness. Retreived October 7, 2007, from http://www.singlescafe.net/solitude.html
Brown, E. (1998). ‘Tis the season to be jolly—But not for the lonely. Medical Update, 22(6), 6.
Buchholz, E. (1998). The call of solitude. Psychology Today, 31(1), 50-57.
Clarke, R. D. (2005). Spend time solo. Black Enterprise, 36(3), 173.
Gifford, K. (2007). Claude Monet – Biography. Retreived October 15, 2007, from http://www.humanitiesweb.org/human.php?s=r&p=a&a=i&ID=826
Goldberg, A. (1989). The virtues of being alone. PsycCRITIQUES, 34(11), 1043-1044.
Henry, C. (2007). Marilyn Munroe. Retreived October 15, 2007, from http://www.filmreference.com/Actors-and-Actresses-Ma-Mo/Monroe-Marilyn.html
Hollenhorst, S., Frank, E. & Watson, A. (1994). The capacity to be alone: Wilderness solitude and growth of the self. International Wilderness Allocation, Management, and Research, 234-239.
Jones, W. H. (1981). Loneliness and Social Contact. The Journal of Social Psychology, 113, 295-296.
Karnick, P. M. (2005). Feeling Lonely: Theoretical Perspectives. Nursing Science Quarterly, 18(1), 7-12.
Long, C. R., Seburn, m., Averill, J. R. & More, T. A. (2003). Solitude experiences: Varieties, settings, and individual differences. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 29, 578-583.
Marano, H. E. (2003, August 25). Solitude vs loneliness. Psychology Today. Retrieved October 5, 2007, from http://psychologytoday.com/articles/index.php?term=pto-2965.html
Mendelson, M. D. & Yeshiva, U. (1990). Reflections on loneliness. Contemporary Psychoanalysis, 26(2), 330-355.
Rokach, A. (2000). Perceived causes of loneliness in adulthood. Journal of Social Behaviour & Personality, 15(1), 67-84.
Rosenblum, G. (2007). Alone or Lonely? Clovetwo. Retrieved October 5, 2007, from http://clovetwo.com/articles/story.asp?file=/2007/10/19/reallives/20071019110835&sec=reallives
Appendices
Appendix A
A photographic representation of the difference between loneliness and solitude
See: http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/representations-of-solitude-and.html
Appendix B
A few of Monet’s famous paintings
See: http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/monet-capturing-essence-of-solitude.html
Appendix C
Self Assessment of Blog
Theory and Research
I did not find any specific theories directly relating to loneliness and solitude in my research. For this particular blog topic, however, I did not feel that a specific theory was necessary anyway. The question asked for the differences between loneliness and solitude to be explained and I think this was sufficiently done with support from previous research, without the need for a theory. A considerable amount of information was available on this topic. I could have written more about who suffers and why they suffer from loneliness, such as the elderly, and the type of person who relishes in solitude, but due to the required small size of the blog, I tried to limit myself to only including research that focused directly on the difference between loneliness and solitude. I also felt it was important to recognise the positive and negative consequences of these characteristics and to mention a few ways, that were supported by research, to reduce loneliness and to benefit from solitude.
I also incorporated personal examples of loneliness and solitude to illustrate the concepts more clearly. I mentioned an experience of both loneliness and solitude from people that I have encountered in my life. I also thought Marilyn Munroe and Claude Monet, who are well known by all, were good representatives of loneliness and solitude. I thought using well known people would enable readers to recognise the stories and make it easier for them to then understand the difference between loneliness and solitude.
Written Expression
An abstract was included at the beginning of the blog to make it clear to readers what the blog was going to discuss. I tried to implement meaningful sub headings to distinguish between sections and to make the blog easier to read, as this was an area that was identified as needing improvement from my first blog. A concept map was included to provide a diagrammatic view of the main points of the blog. This should help readers to understand how loneliness and solitude develop and why two given people in similar situations can end up with two completely different outcomes and consequences.
Readability statistics showed a Flesch-Kincaid Grade level 12 and a Flesch Reading ease of 28.1. The Flesch reading ease is low, however it is a higher result than my first blog which indicates I have improved, at least slightly, on the expression of my ideas. This result is pleasing as I did consciously focus on reducing the length of my sentences and paragraphs.
Online Engagement
My online engagement was improved significantly in the second part of the semester. I made 7 postings on my blog page (increasing from 1 in the first part of semester) which covered social psychology topics including the use of media in spreading important messages, the movie Blood Diamond which captures many relevant themes of social psychology as well as loneliness and solitude. I also made a number of thoughtful comments on other peoples blog pages. The comments revealed my opinions on a range of topics. I also added a poll to my blog page to see how students feel when they are isolated form other people. I feel I should have participated in more online engagement still, but at least I improved. I enjoyed the online engagement a lot more toward the end of semester, I think it just took me a little too long to get used to it.
These are links to my posts and comments from the second part of semester:
Posts on my blog page
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/monet-capturing-essence-of-solitude.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/basic-blog-plan.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/representations-of-solitude-and.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/late-poll.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/solitude-vs-lonlelinesswhats-difference.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/thanks-james.html
http://janespsychpage.blogspot.com/2007/10/effective-media-use.html
Comments on others blog pages
https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=7499764905859280365&postID=8089918408024728576
https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3480035210475226729&postID=3093895172326173628
https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8552559758393911997&postID=6360522819365869787
https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8300280778050537299&postID=7634875439166595556
https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8841261988306058751&postID=2837325489295172266
1 comment:
1.Overall, this is solid, interesting overview of loneliness vs. solitude.
2.Abstract?
Well done.
3.Theory & Research
Key definitional and theoretical differences between loneliness and solitude are made.
Connection to evolutionary theory and need to belong made.
The concept map looked good/useful but wasn't readable.
Use of several relevant research studies noted; there was a tendency to rely on non-peer reviewed electronic references as opposed to the potentially large number of relevant journal articles. Ideally also include key review articles and/or meta-analyses.
4.Written Expression
The written expression is generally good, but some sentences and paragraphs tend to run on, contributing to being over the word count.
There is a tendency towards overly paragraphs (e.g., the opening paragraph was > 300 words; paragraphs of this size would lead to a 1500-word essay with only ~5 paragraphs).
Numerous minor grammatical errors noted, e.g.,
fight of enemies -> fight off enemies
“searching for food, to have the strength” -> (comma should be “and”)
“The consequences, of loneliness” (remove comma)
5.Referencing & Citations
~15 appropriate references were cited (above average).
References:
Marano (2003) reference does not contain a URL which goes directly to the article.
Do not include journal issue numbers.
Titles of articles should be in sentence-case.
6.Online Engagement
Honest, accurate self-assessment, with links to evidence of steady, genuine engagement.
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