Dr. Liu on Social Isolation
Loneliness Across Cultures: You’re not alone in your loneliness
Social isolation is a global phenomenon. We spoke with psychologist Dr. Liu Qiao about what causes social isolation and loneliness in China and Germany, how cultural differences affect coping strategies, and why meaningful interaction with others is essential.
Dr. Liu Qiao, when was the last time you felt lonely?
That feeling comes over me after big events like conferences. When I suddenly find myself alone again in my apartment after such intense days packed with people, encounters and conversations, I sometimes feel abandoned {this is in the past tense in German – mistake or deliberate?}. But these are only brief spells of loneliness that don’t last long.
Let’s delve deeper into the subject of loneliness, specifically in China and Germany. How do the two countries view social isolation?
Loneliness is increasingly coming to be recognized as a serious problem in both countries. There’s a need for social ties and community in both cultures, which goes to show that the importance of human relationships is universal. People in both countries crave closeness and support.
Where do you see differences between the two cultures?
In China, loneliness is often stigmatized as a sign of weakness or personal failure, which keeps people from opening up about their feelings and seeking help. The emphasis on collectivist values and strong family ties reinforces this phenomenon. Talking about loneliness can be regarded as shameful.
In Germany, on the other hand, although a certain stigma does persist, the public conversation about mental health and well-being is more open. German society prioritizes individual autonomy and self-fulfillment. As a result, loneliness can be acknowledged and addressed as more of an individual problem, even if seeking help may still be a hurdle for some people. Psychological support is more widely accepted in German society than in China.
So the cultural context does make a big difference?
Exactly. China’s collectivist culture stresses the importance of family and community. While this does serve to protect against loneliness in many cases, it can also increase pressure to conform to group expectations. And failure to meet these expectations can give rise to a feeling of isolation. In Germany’s individualistic culture, the focus is more on independence and self-reliance. Although this has positive sides, people may end up feeling left out and struggling to find social support.
Why is loneliness increasing in both countries?
Increasing urbanization and the resulting loss of community structures is a key factor in both countries.
In China, the migration to big cities often involves separation from family and friends, which can result in social isolation. Traditionally, the family was the core social network, but many people now lead a modern lifestyle, living alone in an urban environment. Similar challenges are emerging in Germany as a result of increasing mobility.
Another factor is technological change. While social media can make it easier to keep in touch with others, it can also lead to superficial relationships and a sense of isolation, especially if it takes the place of personal contact and meaningful interpersonal relationships. We’re witnessing the spread of the phenomenon of “digital loneliness” in both countries.
Social expectations play a part in this phenomenon too. In both countries, people who feel they’re not living up to those expectations are liable to withdraw from society. In China, the pressure to have a successful career and start a family can cause considerable stress and social isolation.
In Germany, the pressure to lead an independent and self-reliant life can also contribute to loneliness. Demographic change is exacerbating loneliness as well: German society is aging and many older people live alone. This can be seen in cities, but also in rural areas, because young people are moving to the cities.
How does loneliness affect health in the two countries?
The effects of loneliness are far-reaching, impacting both mental and physical health in both countries. In terms of mental health, loneliness can cause depression, anxiety disorders – including social phobia – and loss of self-esteem. Physically, it can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and other illnesses. Long-term loneliness is associated with increased mortality.
Are there any differences between the risks associated with loneliness in the two countries?
The risks are similar, but they tend to manifest differently. In China, the stigma attached to mental illness may induce people to hide their loneliness and not to seek help, which can lead to a chronic condition and more serious consequences. Germany’s individualistic focus can make people feel they’re left to their own devices and may discourage them from seeking support even though it’s available.
What solutions do you see?
Germany already has programs to combat loneliness, such as neighborhood-based support and self-help groups. Psychologists help the lonely reconnect with others and build social networks. The focus is on strengthening community and promoting interaction between generations.
Do the two countries take different approaches to the problem?
China is developing similar programs to strengthen communities, though most of them are still in the early stages. The issue of loneliness still needs to gain wider social acceptance, hence the vital importance of efforts to educate people and raise awareness about psychological problems in China.
What are the psychological challenges involved in treating loneliness?
It’s important to reduce the stigma attached to loneliness and mental illness. We need to encourage people to open up about their feelings and seek help. Another challenge is finding appropriate treatment methods that take the cultural differences into account. One approach in China may be to include the family in therapy. The focus in Germany may be more on individual self-reflection.
As a takeaway, what advice would you give to people suffering from loneliness?
Acknowledge and accept your feelings. Then you can look for ways to reconnect with others. You can participate in group activities, take courses, do volunteer work or make new friends. Psychological support can be very helpful in developing coping strategies and addressing the causes of loneliness. There are self-help groups and support programs in both countries to help those affected. It’s important to bear in mind that you’re not alone in your loneliness and that help is available.
Thank you very much for taking time out to talk to us.
That feeling comes over me after big events like conferences. When I suddenly find myself alone again in my apartment after such intense days packed with people, encounters and conversations, I sometimes feel abandoned {this is in the past tense in German – mistake or deliberate?}. But these are only brief spells of loneliness that don’t last long.
Let’s delve deeper into the subject of loneliness, specifically in China and Germany. How do the two countries view social isolation?
Loneliness is increasingly coming to be recognized as a serious problem in both countries. There’s a need for social ties and community in both cultures, which goes to show that the importance of human relationships is universal. People in both countries crave closeness and support.
Where do you see differences between the two cultures?
In China, loneliness is often stigmatized as a sign of weakness or personal failure, which keeps people from opening up about their feelings and seeking help. The emphasis on collectivist values and strong family ties reinforces this phenomenon. Talking about loneliness can be regarded as shameful.
In Germany, on the other hand, although a certain stigma does persist, the public conversation about mental health and well-being is more open. German society prioritizes individual autonomy and self-fulfillment. As a result, loneliness can be acknowledged and addressed as more of an individual problem, even if seeking help may still be a hurdle for some people. Psychological support is more widely accepted in German society than in China.
So the cultural context does make a big difference?
Exactly. China’s collectivist culture stresses the importance of family and community. While this does serve to protect against loneliness in many cases, it can also increase pressure to conform to group expectations. And failure to meet these expectations can give rise to a feeling of isolation. In Germany’s individualistic culture, the focus is more on independence and self-reliance. Although this has positive sides, people may end up feeling left out and struggling to find social support.
Why is loneliness increasing in both countries?
Increasing urbanization and the resulting loss of community structures is a key factor in both countries.
In China, the migration to big cities often involves separation from family and friends, which can result in social isolation. Traditionally, the family was the core social network, but many people now lead a modern lifestyle, living alone in an urban environment. Similar challenges are emerging in Germany as a result of increasing mobility.
Another factor is technological change. While social media can make it easier to keep in touch with others, it can also lead to superficial relationships and a sense of isolation, especially if it takes the place of personal contact and meaningful interpersonal relationships. We’re witnessing the spread of the phenomenon of “digital loneliness” in both countries.
Social expectations play a part in this phenomenon too. In both countries, people who feel they’re not living up to those expectations are liable to withdraw from society. In China, the pressure to have a successful career and start a family can cause considerable stress and social isolation.
In Germany, the pressure to lead an independent and self-reliant life can also contribute to loneliness. Demographic change is exacerbating loneliness as well: German society is aging and many older people live alone. This can be seen in cities, but also in rural areas, because young people are moving to the cities.
How does loneliness affect health in the two countries?
The effects of loneliness are far-reaching, impacting both mental and physical health in both countries. In terms of mental health, loneliness can cause depression, anxiety disorders – including social phobia – and loss of self-esteem. Physically, it can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and other illnesses. Long-term loneliness is associated with increased mortality.
Are there any differences between the risks associated with loneliness in the two countries?
The risks are similar, but they tend to manifest differently. In China, the stigma attached to mental illness may induce people to hide their loneliness and not to seek help, which can lead to a chronic condition and more serious consequences. Germany’s individualistic focus can make people feel they’re left to their own devices and may discourage them from seeking support even though it’s available.
What solutions do you see?
Germany already has programs to combat loneliness, such as neighborhood-based support and self-help groups. Psychologists help the lonely reconnect with others and build social networks. The focus is on strengthening community and promoting interaction between generations.
Do the two countries take different approaches to the problem?
China is developing similar programs to strengthen communities, though most of them are still in the early stages. The issue of loneliness still needs to gain wider social acceptance, hence the vital importance of efforts to educate people and raise awareness about psychological problems in China.
What are the psychological challenges involved in treating loneliness?
It’s important to reduce the stigma attached to loneliness and mental illness. We need to encourage people to open up about their feelings and seek help. Another challenge is finding appropriate treatment methods that take the cultural differences into account. One approach in China may be to include the family in therapy. The focus in Germany may be more on individual self-reflection.
Acknowledge and accept your feelings. Then you can look for ways to reconnect with others. You can participate in group activities, take courses, do volunteer work or make new friends. Psychological support can be very helpful in developing coping strategies and addressing the causes of loneliness. There are self-help groups and support programs in both countries to help those affected. It’s important to bear in mind that you’re not alone in your loneliness and that help is available.
Thank you very much for taking time out to talk to us.
D
Dr. Liu Qiao