On Escapism: Exploring The Fine Line Between Solace and Avoidance

- Deeksha Solanki

Intern, Mind Splatters, May-July 2024

If you are someone who would rather catch up on a new show or read another chapter of your novel, every time you wish to avoid studying for an exam or to create a safe space for yourself away from all your troubles, you may be an Escapist!

So, what is Escapism?

‘Escapism isn’t a solution, it is merely a temporary distraction.’

A habitual diversion of the mind, to purely imaginative activities or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine, is known as Escapism according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

To avoid unpleasant memories and even traumatic ones, people are found to indulge in escapist activities. Several theoretical frameworks have been put forth that talk about how escapism plays a role in coping with loneliness as well. For instance, escapism finds a justification in the Terror Management Theory, which says that once individuals feel threatened by their environment, they tend to inculcate worldviews that foster a better life for them. Isn’t that interesting?

Let’s understand Maladaptive Behavior.

We know how every aspect of life includes things that are unhealthy and things that benefit. Then some things benefit us only when done in moderation. Excessiveness of certain things may lead to psychological disturbance, impairment of social functioning, and so on.

These behaviors are classified into Adaptive and Maladaptive behaviors. Suppose you find yourself indulging in behavior that is independent (not hyper-independent) like personal care, hobbies, or practices that you adopt to take a break from any stressful and challenging situations. In that case, you may be taking part in Adaptive Escapism!

On the other hand, when an individual is said to often avoid talking about their emotions, neglect responsibilities, and cancel get-together plans, to instead rely on a practice which provides them with an ‘escape’, they are said to be experiencing maladaptive Escapism.

Furthermore, maladaptive Escapism may contribute to psychological distress and other functioning impairments as well.

Identifying the fine line between Solace and Avoidance

The degree to which a group of individuals may indulge in escapist behavior varies greatly. For instance, actively avoiding completing tasks or neglecting personal duties; substance abuse; a lack of boundary setting in interpersonal relations, and so on. This makes it crucial to recognize and manage certain behaviors that may lead to psychological discomfort and potential impairment in social functioning.

The fine line separating the benefits of escapism and the harms involved becomes vital to understand once we are aware of the consequences. Escapists often indulge in activities that provide them with comfort in unpleasant times, it becomes a form of solace.

A major difference between finding solace in certain activities and using that behavior as a form of avoidance is the degree or extent to which we indulge in it. Once it crosses the healthy boundaries, escapist behavior is bound to attract psychological distress which often draws us even closer to it.

Escaping Escapism

Escapist behavior also involves fantasizing and daydreaming to shift from reality temporarily. The use of recreational

drugs can provide a sense of relief which is also counted as a form of escapism, along with social withdrawal.

But how does one reduce the need to escape?

Understand the non-beneficial boundary of escapism. This may allow us to properly identify and regulate our behaviors.

Developing emotional resilience by seeking social support, professional help, or through introspection- is crucial for facing difficulties we face.

Adopt self-compassion and forgive your shortcomings more often.

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Connecting with friends and family can be a helpful way to stay in touch with reality and reduce the need to escape from it!