What Causes Social Withdrawal?

Connection is an essential part of the human experience. We desire connection, and, in many ways, we’re hardwired to be social. Yet, at the same time, people may enjoy some time alone to rest, reflect, and recharge. This differs from pulling away from your support system and intentionally avoiding opportunities to interact with others. When a person removes opportunities for socializing, they may be experiencing social withdrawal.  

An integral aspect of development is learning to socialize and create relationships with others. When we choose not to or limit our opportunities for connection, it can lead to issues that impact our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. 

This article discusses social withdrawal and what causes it.

What Is Social Withdrawal?

Japanese psychologist, Saito, discussed a particular type of social withdrawal, known as hikikomori, as the act of withdrawing or removing contact with family or other members of a person’s support system and not engaging in activities such as work or school.

As social creatures, social behavior and relationships contribute to healthy development. It teaches us a great deal about ourselves and our identities and influences our social and cognitive skills.

Social withdrawal can lead to a person developing a pattern of solitary activities. In turn, their interpersonal skills may suffer.

As a result, social withdrawal can be associated with feelings of shame, low self-esteem, and fear of rejection. In addition, lack of social interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and physical, cognitive, and mental health issues. 

What Causes Social Withdrawal?

There are many theories on what contributes to social withdrawal. Research suggests that withdrawal is associated with mental health conditions such as:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depressive/mood disorders
• Personality disorders
• Schizophrenia
• Child and adolescent autism spectrum disorders
  

In these cases, social withdrawal is sometimes viewed as a sign or symptom of a mental health disorder.

Other factors that can lead to social withdrawal are:

• Low self-esteem
• Shame
• Sadness
• Vulnerability 
• Anger
• Perceived isolation
• Previous relationship issues 
• Fear of rejection 
  

Additionally, a person’s preference or temperament, environment, and familial dynamics are also possible factors.

Social Withdrawal in Children

As children grow and discover more about themselves, they may have periods when they become more elusive or reclusive. To some extent, this is normal as they explore their identities. However, if you notice that your child is avoiding school, experiencing low mood, having difficulty establishing friendships, or engaging socially, these may be some indicators that something else is happening. 

Children may withdraw for many reasons. It may be a manifestation of:

• Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression
• Bullying or other conflicts
• Social pressure
• Shyness
• Feeling misunderstood

Social connectedness is vital for the development of children and teens. It helps them enhance the cognitive and social skills they’ll utilize throughout their lives and learn how to establish support systems.

When children and adolescents become overly withdrawn, it can lead to:

• Feelings of loneliness
• Disconnection
• Self-harming behaviors
• Eating disorders
• Thoughts of suicide

It’s important to talk to your kids about their social connections and how they are struggling. 

Risk Factors

There are risk factors that can increase your likelihood of becoming socially withdrawn. Research identifies the following factors as possible influences:

• Biological
• Environmental
• Parenting
• Peer relationships
• Age, particularly in older adults who experience cognitive decline
• Mental health conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia 
  

It's important to note that interactions among these factors can lead to increased social withdrawal.

Is Social Withdrawal Bad?

Social withdrawal is not to be confused with taking some time to yourself. Spending time alone can be healthy for reflection, self-care, or self-maintenance.

This is different from a more extended pattern of social withdrawal and isolation that can have negative consequences. For instance, social withdrawal at certain stages of development can impact the development of interpersonal skills, perspective-taking, problem-solving, and teaching individuals mutual respect.

A person’s overall health, well-being, and daily functioning can suffer when they significantly withdraw from social interactions. Doing so can lead to isolation, loneliness, stress, relational conflict, low energy, and even suicidal thoughts.

How to Overcome Social Withdrawal

Some ways to overcome social withdrawal include:

• Learning coping skills to manage anxiety and depression
• Reconnect with trusted members of your support system
• Rediscover hobbies and interests
• Talk to a healthcare provider or schedule an appointment with a mental health professional 
• Practicing self-compassion and self-care
  

When to Seek Help

It’s OK to ask for help. It may be the first step in your journey to feeling better and becoming an active participant in your relationships again.

You might consider seeking support if you notice:

• Anxiety or depression symptoms
• Avoidance behaviors
• Difficulty connecting with others
• Lack of desire to interact with others
• Worsening social withdrawal
• Self-harm 
• Suicidal thoughts
  

If you notice that social withdrawal significantly impacts your life and relationships, it may be time to reach out for help.

Summary

A person who is socially withdrawn removes themselves from encounters and interactions with others. There are many reasons why people may choose not to connect with others, including anxiety, fear, shame, vulnerability, potential rejection, and more. It can be a reflection of an underlying mental health condition.

Social withdrawal can significantly impact a person’s ability to develop relationships with others and influence their sense of self and mental well-being. Therefore, it’s important to seek help if you find yourself withdrawing or notice your child or other loved one doing so. 

A Word From Verywell

Though it can be a solitary act, taking time for yourself to rest, reflect, and recharge is not the same as being withdrawn. If you find yourself pulling away from your support system, having trouble connecting with others, avoiding interactions with others, or experiencing increased loneliness, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, it may be time to reach out to a professional. Having a safe space to talk about what’s going on can help you identify underlying issues contributing to social issues, as well as how you can begin to re-engage.