The sense of belonging or social acceptance is critical to our sense of well-being. Early researchers such as Abraham Maslow cite belonging as one of our most basic needs, something that cannot be ignored and something that is critical to our growth and the fulfillment of a satisfying life.
Depression, despair, anxiety and anger can often find their roots in loneliness, lack of support and the fear of being alone. It is frustrating to not understand why things don’t just “click” socially for us when it seems to come so easily to some. Studies indicate that people without social ties are more apt to commit suicide than those with a supportive network in place.
In working with clients who feel very alone I realize that their inability to fit in or find a “tribe” is not that they have any inherent character flaws that interfere with friendship, in fact there is nothing obnoxious or “wrong” with them at all. Many are delightful, smart, fun people who just need some information on how social groups work.
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