themselves. In contrast, 31% wished they had more time alone in their lives.
These numbers are consistent with observations of several researchers who
argue that isolation from other people also has benefits (Buchholz &
Helbraun, 1999; Burger, 1995; Larson, 1990; Long & Averill, 2003; Storr,
1988). To better understand the advantages of time alone, investigators some-
times divide solitude into three kinds of experiences (Burger, 1998). We can
look at the effects of short periods of solitude during the day, usually mea-sured in minutes. We also can study the effects of longer, planned time by
oneself, typically measured in hours. Or we can examine the impact of ex-
tended periods of solitude, such as those measured in days. Each of thesekinds of solitude has the potential to contribute to our well-being.
Even short periods of solitude spaced throughout the day can make a
rough day go better. Sometimes we just need a break from constant social ac-tivity to organize our thoughts and psychologically prepare for future activi-
ties. Some writers have referred to this as a “self-restoration ”process in
which we reestablish a sense of who we are separate from the “social ”self
we present to others (Altman, 1975). Other psychologists describe these mo-
ments of solitude as a kind of emotional renewal. Adults and adolescents in
the pager studies said they felt more cheerful and more alert after spending
short periods of time by themselves (Larson et al., 1982). Not surprisingly, a
common complaint among people experiencing stress is that they have too lit-
tle time to themselves (Webb, 1978).1020304050Percentage of Day Spent Alone
Children
9–12High
School
StudentsAdults Retired
Adults
FIGURE 12.6 Percentage of Day Spent Alone as a Function of Age
Source: Adapted from Larson (1990).Solitude 335