PROSOCIALNESS AND SOLITUDE

The current study investigates the relationship between prosocialness and solitude with a particular focus on the negative and positive sides of solitude. Prosocialness and solitude are seen as essential elements in the dynamic process of individual self-regulation process that integrates the need to belong and the necessity to renew or to conserve energy for future pro social interactions. The main purposes were: 1.to test the correlation between prosocialness and solitude; 2. to design and to implement a creative meditation group metaphor (the magic garden) to increase the prosocialness dimension and to attenuate the negative experiences of solitude. Multiple methods were used in this study: experimental design, observation, psychodiagnostic instruments, and statistical methods (Correlation and Paired-Samples T Test). Results suggest that if someone prefers to involve in proactive actions such as sharing, helping, taking care of, feeling emphatic with others, it is more likely to prefer less time spent in negative solitude. The creative meditation group metaphor enhanced feelings of connection and allowed the participants to explore the self-transformative and restorative effects of solitude (the positive side of solitude) in the form of self-reflection, creative insights and relaxation. It is the balance between prosocialness and solitude that can better support and contribute to a healthy and meaningful life.