Psychology - What happens in your head when you live as a single person for a long time?
Person is the ruler over their realm and their time, one can make everything in life fit as it currently suits them. The single life can be very pleasant. However, even if one is actually happy, single existence can have psychological consequences.
The psychology portal "Charlie Health" analyzed seven effects that single life can have on our psychological health.
Psychological Consequences for Long-Term Singles:
Fear of RejectionProlonged dating abstinence can lead singles to develop anxiety towards rejection and hesitate to enter new relationships. After long-term single existence, they are often cautious in partner selection and question their ability to build emotional bonds.
LonelinessWhen one is single for a long time, it can make them feel lonely due to the lack of a lasting emotional bond. This loneliness can make it difficult to open up to others. The fear of the renewed loss of a deep connection could lead to a fear of new relationships.
Low Self-WorthSome people feel worthless after a long time as a single due to societal pressure or personal beliefs regarding relationships. In a world that sees romantic partnerships as a measure of success, they may question their own worth and compare themselves to others who are already in relationships or have achieved certain, socially recognized milestones.
Social AnxietyLong-term single existence can lead to more social anxiety, especially when encountering couples or new dates. Some singles feel uncomfortable or excluded when they are around couples. Some may even feel envy or anger. The uncertainty that arises when meeting a new, potential partner can also intensify social anxiety.
Other PrioritiesA positive psychological effect of single life can be the change in priorities. Instead of focusing on a partner, singles often place their careers, hobbies, friendships, and self-care at the forefront. Singles have more time for self-reflection and better understand their own values, interests, and personal growth. This time without a partner allows them to deepen friendships, making them a sort of chosen family.
Personal GrowthLong-term single existence can foster personal growth, self-confidence, and independence. Singles learn to cope with unexpected challenges on their own, strengthening their emotional resilience and problem-solving skills. They often develop a better ability to handle the ups and downs of life without the immediate support of a partner.
+++ Read also +++
Heat as a Relationship Killer – why we should rather avoid our partner
Flirting Strategies: Is she funnier than him, will it result in a serious relationship?
Lies in Relationships: Study analyzes the most common lies
Single individuals may develop a fear of rejection after prolonged dating abstinence, leading them to be cautious in partner selection and question their ability to form emotional bonds. The world's emphasis on romantic partnerships as a measure of success can sometimes contribute to feelings of low self-worth among long-term singles, causing them to question their own worth when compared to those in relationships or achieving societally recognized milestones. Despite these potential psychological challenges, the single life can also offer opportunities for personal growth, self-confidence, and independence, as singles learn to cope with challenges independently and deepen their friendships.
