As I’ve written about in previous posts, I think the term “loner” is too often used to describe behavior that falls outside the normal range of introvert experience. Instead of a negative term that denotes a dangerously isolated individual, I think “loner” should be reclaimed for those who simply enjoy spending time alone.
Because of this, I was heartened to find an article on the Psychology Today Web site with the promising title “Field Guide to the Loner: The Real Insiders.” Presenting anecdotes of people who genuinely find time alone to be healing and beneficial, the author draws a distinction between “the loner-by-preference” and “the enforced loner.” She further notes that there is compelling psychological evidence that introverts have “…increased sensitivity to all kinds of emotional interactions and sensory cues, which may mean that they find pleasure where others do not,” which can be positive but can also lead to overstimulation in social settings.
If you’re interested in reading the full article, go here.
February 2nd, 2010 at 2:29 am
Hello spectatrix, thanks for this heartening post.. i’m an Indonesian, i’m 21 years old. i began to follow your write since several weeks ago, and found it really helpful and does fit to me to understand myself. I’m also an introvert,according to myers&briggs, i’m an INFJ. It’s really relieving to know that as a ‘loner’ i’m not ‘alone’ 🙂 thank you very much, ur write has accross the continent and inspires me to understand myself much more. Terima kasih..
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:31 am
I’m so glad I found this blog. LOVED the article you pointed to in this post and really loved your post on Facebook. I thought I was the only one who had that reaction to it.
February 2nd, 2010 at 2:08 pm
Sammy,
Sama-sama! Thanks for reading!
Allie,
Thanks! It’s so nice to know that what I’m doing on the blog resonates with other people.