The Negative Effects Of Social Isolation

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Social isolation is defined as the state of complete or near-complete lack of contact between an individual and society. Social isolation can occur at four different levels. The outermost layer is when an individual is isolated from the community or larger social structure. The next layer includes an individual being integrated from work, schools, and religious place of worship known as the layer of organization. The next layer includes an individual being isolated from close friends, family, or significant others. Lastly, the innermost layer is when an individual has the ability or personality to isolate themselves from society. Social isolation has many negative effects on an individual. However, social isolation is still used as an attempt …show more content…

In the nineteenth century, Emily Durkheim formed a theory that the lack of social integration causes an increase of suicide rates. A study performed on mice showed isolation could increase chances of cancerous tumor growth. A second study showed isolation could increase the risk of disease in addition to obesity and smoking. Social isolation could result in depression and insanity in individuals. It has been proven social isolation has physical, mental, and emotional detriments. Research conducted over the past view years show social isolation has worsened existent medical issues in individuals such as low energy, trouble sleeping, and dietary problems. Individuals begin to experience emotional responses to being socially isolated and encompass the occurrence of alienation. Research has shown individuals who suffer from feeling of alienation are rejected by society and they can not do anything to change this effect and make their lives better. Alienation can lead to depression and anger. Lastly, the mental effects of social isolation can lead to hallucinations, frustration, anger, aggression, panic attacks, and cognitive deficits. The individual feels they are in constant physical danger because they do not have the protection of other humans or society. Due to these harmful effects, the current debate argues whether or not solitary confinement is deemed ethical or

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