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The Effects of Multifaceted Introversion and Sensory Processing Sensitivity on Solitude-Seeking Behavior
Virginia Thomas1, Paul A Nelson2
1Department of Psychology, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA.
Journal of Personality
|August 17, 2024
Summary
Highly sensitive and introverted individuals seek solitude. Stress also increases solitude frequency, which is linked to lower daily well-being, irrespective of personality traits.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Solitude can be beneficial, especially for introverted and highly sensitive individuals.
- Understanding the motivations and consequences of solitude is crucial for well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between introversion, sensory processing sensitivity, and the motivation for and frequency of volitional solitude.
- To examine the association between solitude, stress, and subjective well-being.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 301 US adults and 99 undergraduates on sensory processing sensitivity and introversion (STAR Introversion Scale, Big Five Inventory).
- Participants reported daily solitude frequency/duration, stress, and well-being over 10 days.
Main Results:
- Social Introversion and sensitivity predicted higher solitude motivation and frequency.
- Stress positively correlated with solitude frequency; solitude negatively correlated with well-being.
- STAR Introversion Scale measures were stronger predictors than Big Five Inventory introversion.
Conclusions:
- Introversion (STAR) and sensitivity significantly drive solitude motivation.
- Solitude is sought during stress, independent of personality traits.
- Daily solitude frequency is linked to reduced well-being.
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