for solitude did manage to find more time for solitude in their days than the
typical student. Moreover, whereas almost all the students said their timewith others was pleasant, the students with a high preference for solitude
were significantly more likely to report that their time alone was enjoyable.
In short, people with a high preference for solitude do not avoid social
encounters and, in fact, enjoy their time with others quite a lot. Moreover,
people who enjoy time alone are not simply seeking an escape from social
anxiety (Leary, Herbst, & McCrary, 2003). Rather, these individuals findsomething positive in being by themselves. What are these positive features
of solitude? Undergraduate students in one study rated the importance of
seven positive aspects of solitude they sometimes experience when by them-selves (Long, Seburn, Averill, & More, 2003). As shown in Table 12.4, the
list runs from solving problems to a spiritual experience. These findings are
consistent with Maslow ’s observations of psychologically healthy people.
Not only are a preference for solitude and well-being compatible, they may
actually go hand in hand.
SUMMARY
1. Although humanistic psychologists sometimes shun empirical studies, re-
search on topics introduced or promoted by these psychologists has pro-
vided insight into some important aspects of humanistic personality theory.
2. Research on self-disclosure finds that people follow social rules con-
cerning when and how to reveal information about themselves.
Foremost among these is the rule of disclosure reciprocity. People ina get-acquainted situation tend to match the intimacy level of their
conversational partner. However, friends who have already shared338 CHAPTER 12 The Humanistic Approach
TABLE 12.4
Seven Positive Aspects of Solitude
Problem Solving Opportunity to think about specific problems or decisions you
are facing
Inner Peace Feel calm and relaxed, away from the pressures of everyday life
Self-Discovery Gain insight into your fundamental values and goals, come to
realize your unique strengths and weaknesses
Creativity Stimulates novel ideas or innovative ways of expressing yourselfAnonymity Act in whatever ways you feel like at the moment, without
concern for social niceties or what others might think
Intimacy Although alone, you feel especially close to someone you care
about
Spirituality A sense of transcending everyday concerns, of being a part of
something grander than yourself
Source: From Long et al. (2003).