Self-regulatory Solitude: A Qualitative Exploration of Solitude in Indian Youth
Solitude has often been confused with co-existing affective states of 'loneliness' and 'aloneness' (Long et al., 2003). A growing body of literature (Nguyen et al., 2018) has quantitatively explored existing drives, affective outcomes and determinants of experience of solitude. Despite extensive research, a comprehensive conceptualization of solitude is yet to be achieved. Therefore, the current study qualitatively explores the subjective definition of solitude, individual experiences and the purposes behind seeking solitude through 10 semi-structured interviews with Bangalore you (24-28 years). Through thematic analysis, the study found that participants differed (social avoidance, self-regulation, productivity) in their purpose behind seeking solitude and the solitary activities that they engaged in. The role of space and agency in the experience of solitude was also highlighted. The study discusses the subjective experience of solitude in relation to existing literature and holds important implications regarding the use of solitude as a tool for affective self-regulation