Institutional Deprivation
Institutional deprivation is when an individual is denied access to certain institutions or social structures due to their background, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, age, or any other factor that may be considered a disadvantage in society. This could include being raised in foster care, homelessness, prison, or other similar environments. Individuals who experience institutional deprivation may have difficulty forming close relationships later in life because they are unfamiliar with traditional societal norms. They often feel isolated and lacking connection with others, which can lead them to seek out alternative forms of companionship such as romantic relationships.
Emotional Intensity
Emotional intensity refers to how strongly someone feels emotions, both positive and negative. It involves experiencing intense joy, love, anger, fear, sadness, and other feelings deeply. People who have experienced institutional deprivation may struggle with regulating their emotions and expressing themselves appropriately in relationships. They may appear distant or cold during intimate moments because they do not know how to process their own feelings effectively.
They may crave more emotionally intense experiences than those around them.
Shaping Expectations
When individuals regain freedom from institutional deprivation, they must navigate a new world where people expect different levels of emotional intensity in their relationships. They may find it difficult to read social cues and understand what is expected of them in various situations.
They may act too intensely in some cases or come across as detached in others. Their perception of what is "normal" for an intimate relationship may also differ significantly from those around them. As a result, they may have trouble connecting with partners who do not share their unique perspective on emotional expression.
Overcoming Obstacles
Individuals who have experienced institutional deprivation must work hard to overcome these obstacles in order to form meaningful connections. This includes learning to recognize and regulate their own emotions, communicating openly and honestly about their needs, and being patient with partners who may not always understand them. With time and effort, they can develop healthy relationships that meet their emotional needs while still respecting the boundaries of those around them.
How does institutional deprivation shape individuals' expectations for emotional intensity in external relationships once they regain freedom?
Institutional deprivation is the lack of opportunities that are available outside an institution such as prison, mental health facility, or hospital. It affects individuals' expectations for emotional intensity in their relationships after release by shaping them into expecting less from other people and life in general. Individuals who have been through institutional deprivation tend to be emotionally numb, which may make it difficult for them to form strong bonds with others.