The creative process as a model for overcoming negative loneliness. A review of fiction and scientific literature

Introduction . The rise of social isolation and the deterioration of psychological health in the population increase the significance of the problem of negative loneliness and the search for effective ways to overcome it. Therefore, the creative process is considered a promising way to transform loneliness into a source of inner growth. This understanding requires thorough theoretical and empirical research. The purpose of the study: to study the creative process as a model for overcoming negative loneliness for theoretical and applied research in the field of accessible psychological support for people with a pronounced sense of loneliness based on the analysis of fiction and scientific literature. Materials and methods. The materials used were scientific publications from the Web of Science, PsycINFO, eLIBRARY.RU, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases, as well as works of fiction by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Haruki Murakami, Irvin Yalom, and Oscar Wilde, supplemented by the theoretical concepts of Carl Gustav Jung. The research methods included a review, systematization, and comparative analysis of theories of loneliness, literary texts, and the results of empirical research in the field of creativity and psychotherapy. Results. An analysis of the artistic and scientific literature on the creative process as a promising way to transform loneliness into a source of inner growth revealed the theoretical foundations and practical mechanisms linking creativity and the reduction of loneliness. It demonstrated the impact of creativity on the social, emotional, and cognitive levels, reducing loneliness and improving quality of life. Practical mechanisms linking creativity and the reduction of loneliness (organizing group creative projects, using art therapy practices, and creating creative workshops) help create a sense of community and strengthen social connections, provide an opportunity to safely express inner experiences, support self-esteem, and expand social circles. Forming new connections reduces feelings of social isolation. Conclusion. The key finding of this study is that the creative process is effective as a means of combating negative loneliness. Using the creative process as a means of combating negative loneliness opens new horizons for personal growth and emotional health.

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