Samotność i osamotnienie w doświadczeniach i narracjach małżeństw z dużym stażem pożycia małżeńskiego

Most researchers and authors dealing with loneliness and solitude clearly distinguish these two concepts. In their reflections they most often point to the existence of two distinct states, ie objective – physical, or loneliness, as opposed to the subjective – psychic, which is loneliness (sometimes called mental loneliness). Despite the recognition of this distinction, there is still no consensus on the content behind the two terms. It is worth mentioning that many writers on loneliness related to old age do not define it at all (Abrams, Blau, Sheldon, Karn). According to I. Yoloma, loneliness results from a lack of communication with another person. This is especially noticeable in the elderly, who have been eliminated from everyday life due to family, health or social situations. Solitude is the most common result of the lack of social relationships, including relationships with the family. It causes emotional disorders, reduces or limits the ability to accept and to work effectively. The narratives of the subjects clearly distinguish these two states: loneliness and solitude. They can also point to the specific experiences of their lives which confirm the different nature of these two states. Purpose of the study was to describe the unique phenomenon of solitude in a relationship. Also show many aspects of loneliness, resulting from the experience of the subjects.