Solitude and Loneliness: An Integrative Model

Abstract

The bulk of research on loneliness has been content to define loneliness as the result of relationship deficits with others. This article expands the current understanding of loneliness to include relationship with self as an important factor. From this new understanding, solitude is considered as a possible intervention for dealing with specific types of loneliness. A circular model is then introduced that explains the relationship that loneliness and solitude have with each other. Suggestions for research, counseling, and education are then made from the new model.