What is Retreatism?
Retreatism is a type of social deviance in which a person retreats from society and its standards. This decision is frequently taken due to a perceived inability to satisfy or adhere to society's expectations or standards. Retreatism can present itself in various ways, such as substance misuse, vagrancy, or social isolation.
Definition 2
Retreatism is the escape of society’s demands rejecting culturally prescribed means and goals. Retreatism is one of the five modes of adaptation in Robert K. Merton’s anomie theory. Those who adapt through retreatism are society’s dropouts: psychotics, tramps, and substance abusers.
More Thorough Understanding of the Term
Retreatism differs from other types of social deviance, such as revolt or compliance, in that it entails an outright rejection of society's ideals and goals. Retreatists make no attempt to reform society or adapt to its expectations. Instead, they retreat from society and frequently dwell on the outskirts.
Individuals who engage in retreatism may resort to substance misuse, vagrancy, or social isolation to cope with their inability to match society's standards. Retreatism can harm both individuals and society as a whole since it can lead to social disorganization and the emergence of subcultures that reject mainstream values and standards.
The fundamental reasons for social disorder, such as poverty and social injustice, must be addressed to prevent retreatism. Individuals must be given the means and support they need to reintegrate into society.
Reasons for Engaging in Retreatism
For various reasons, individuals may engage in retreatism, a social deviance that entails withdrawing from society and its norms.
- Some people may feel unable to meet society's expectations or adapt to its standards, prompting them to withdraw from society to deal with their perceived failure.
- Others may have social or psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, that make it difficult for them to participate in society.
- Some people may turn to substance addiction or vagrancy to escape or cope with their troubles.
- Furthermore, poverty, unemployment, and social injustice can also contribute to retreatism by limiting an individual's access to resources and opportunities.
- Finally, retreatism is a complicated phenomenon with numerous causes and consequences, and tackling it necessitates a multifaceted approach that addresses the individual and societal elements that contribute to it.
Social Impact of Retreatism
Retreatism, a type of social deviance characterized by fully rejecting society's ideals and goals, can have significant social consequences.
- Individuals who practice retreatism may withdraw from mainstream society and live on the outskirts of society, resulting in social disarray and the formation of subcultures that reject conventional values and norms. This can contribute to societal fragmentation and the weakening of social cohesion, both of which are necessary for a healthy society to function.
- Retreatism can also have economic consequences since retreatists may struggle to participate in the job market or contribute to the economy. This can lead to a loss of human capital and lower economic output, which can have far-reaching societal consequences.
- Furthermore, retreatism can harm an individual by causing social isolation, substance misuse, and other health concerns. This can strain the healthcare system and contribute to more significant public health issues.
Preventing Retreatism
Prevention of retreatism necessitates a multifaceted approach. It entails tackling the root causes of retreatism, which include poverty, unemployment, and social injustice. It also entails giving them the resources and support they need to overcome difficulties and reintegrate into society.
Individuals can be helped to reintegrate into society and contribute to its functioning if they can access resources and opportunities such as education and job training. It is also critical to foster social inclusion and cohesion, which can aid in the prevention of the formation of subcultures that reject mainstream values and norms.
Examples
Example 1: Vagrancy
Individuals who participate in vagrancy may opt to live a life of traveling or homelessness to defy conventional expectations about jobs and output.
Example 2: Escapism
Some people may engage in hobbies such as excessive television viewing or video game playing to avoid the responsibilities and obligations of daily life.
In Sentences
- Retreatism is a term that is often used in sociology and criminology to describe a type of social deviance.
- Understanding retreatism and its ramifications allows us to work for a more just and equitable society that promotes its members' well-being.