Solitude

The Science and Power of Being Alone

Netta Weinstein (University of Reading), Heather Hansen (University of Reading), Thuy-vy T. Nguyen (Durham University)

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English

Cambridge University Press
22 April 2024

The average adult spends nearly one-third of their waking life alone. How do we overcome the stigma of solitude and find strength in going it alone? Whether we love it or try to avoid it, we can make better use of that time. The science of solitude shows that alone time can be a powerful space used to tap into countless benefits. Translating key research findings into actionable facts and advice, this book shows that alone time can boost well-being. From relaxation and recharging to problem solving and emotion regulation, solitude can benefit personal growth, contentment, creativity, and our relationships with ourselves and others. Learning what makes us better at spending time alone can help us move toward our best possible selves.

By: Netta Weinstein (University of Reading), Heather Hansen (University of Reading), Thuy-vy T. Nguyen (Durham University)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 236mm, Width: 158mm, Spine: 20mm
Weight: 560g
ISBN: 9781009256605
ISBN 10: 1009256602
Pages: 300
Publication Date: 22 April 2024
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

A note to the reader; Introduction; 1. Solitude is not just for hermits, poets, and billionaires; 2. Everyday solitude for everyday people; 3. What makes solitude great?; 4. Mapping the benefits of solitude; 5. What's choice got to do with it?; 6. Balancing solitude with social time; 7. Super/natural solitude; 8. Finding your happy place in solitude; 9. Can we get better at being alone?; 10. Solitude across a lifetime.

Netta Weinstein is an internationally recognized psychologist and director of the European Research Council's 'Solitude: Alone but Resilient (SOAR)' project. Her research focuses on motivation and well-being. She is also Professor of Psychology at the University of Reading and an associate researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, UK. Heather Hansen is an independent science writer and author. She joined SOAR and the Solitude Project in 2020 to lend her expertise in interviewing and communication. She has won awards from the American Society of Journalists and Authors, the Society of American Travel Writers, and the Colorado Authors League. Thuy-vy T. Nguyen is a pioneer and expert in studying solitude in laboratory experiments and investigating the factors that lead to different concepts of solitude. She is also Associate Professor in Psychology at Durham University, a fellow at Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Well-being, and principal investigator of the Solitude Lab at Durham University, UK.

Reviews for Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone

'Evocative prose helps convey the shifting realities of solitude as experienced by both the interview subjects and the authors … It's an illuminating take on a fundamental aspect of being human.' Publishers Weekly