Social isolation can be defined as the separation of an individual from society. It is a state wherein one feels lonely, disconnected, and untouchable. Isolation occurs due to various factors such as depression, addiction, anxiety, trauma, fear, etc.
It also leads to loneliness, which may cause detrimental effects on mental health. Despite feeling isolated, people still belong to communities that help them survive.
The definition of community refers to a group of individuals who share similar interests, goals, values, beliefs, characteristics, or location. The belongingness theory states that humans have a psychological need to feel connected with others and form groups for mutual support and protection. Social connection helps maintain emotional stability, promote well-being, increase happiness, enhance self-esteem, and reduce stress. Thus, social mechanisms allow isolation and collective belonging to coexist.
A community comprises various subgroups such as family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, classmates, and religious organizations. These groups provide a sense of belonging through shared experiences, common interests, and reciprocal exchanges. Communities create bonds based on trust, empathy, love, care, and sympathy.
In the family, members communicate, eat together, celebrate occasions, and help each other during difficult times. In the workplace, coworkers collaborate on projects, exchange ideas, offer feedback, and help each other grow professionally.
Communities provide social capital, which includes resources like information, knowledge, skills, contacts, networks, and reputation. Members can leverage these assets to access opportunities, improve their lives, achieve success, and overcome challenges.
A person can use his/her network to find a job, get mentorship, or establish a business. Community members also receive social support, including advice, guidance, comfort, and encouragement, when facing difficulties. Thus, even though one may be isolated from society, he/she still belongs to communities that aid them.
Despite feeling disconnected from society, people may participate in community activities, attend events, volunteer, or join groups to meet new people and form relationships. They may engage in virtual platforms or social media platforms to connect with others worldwide. Social media provides a platform for interaction and creates a virtual community. It helps individuals feel connected and less lonely.
Isolation is not synonymous with loneliness; one can feel socially distant without being alone. People belong to various communities that fulfill their need for connection, social support, and shared experiences. Despite being separated, they interact through digital means and participate in group activities, giving them a sense of belongingness.
What social mechanisms allow isolation to coexist with collective belonging?
Isolation is a fundamental aspect of human experience that can be found at both the individual and group levels. In this context, it refers to a state where individuals feel disconnected from others around them, and may even have difficulties establishing meaningful relationships. At the same time, humans also possess an innate need for social connection, which suggests that we seek out groups to belong to in order to fulfill this need.