Loneliness in Morocco: A Culture of Obligatory Social Connection
A recent study by researchers from the Annecy Behavioral Science Lab and the University of Oxford has shed light on the complexities of loneliness in Morocco. The study, which involved in-depth interviews with 50 Moroccans across different ages, regions, and loneliness levels, reveals a unique cultural dynamic where social connection is not just valued but also moralized.
For many participants, being socially connected is seen as a marker of good character, and those who prefer to spend time alone are often misunderstood or stigmatized. As one young woman put it, ‘Moroccans don’t know the notion of introverts… if you are someone who likes to spend time alone, you will be called autistic, or you have some kind of disease.’
This cultural expectation of social connection creates a paradoxical situation where people are often surrounded by others but still feel lonely. As one participant described, ‘You can be surrounded and still feel like nobody sees you.’ This phenomenon is exacerbated by communal rituals like Friday couscous, which can amplify feelings of loneliness for those who already feel unseen.
One of the most striking aspects of the study is the way in which Moroccans define connection. Rather than focusing on the frequency of interactions, they describe connection as a felt quality of being seen and heard. As one participant put it, ‘It’s when you feel seen. Not just when someone talks to you, but when you speak and they actually hear you.’
This understanding of connection highlights the importance of genuine human interaction and the need to move beyond mere social contact. As the study’s authors note, ‘Abundant social contact is not the cure for loneliness, and mandating togetherness can deepen the wound.’
Instead, what lonely people need is not more people, but one person who notices when their ‘I’m fine’ sounds different. This requires a shift in cultural attitudes towards loneliness, one that recognizes the complexity and nuance of human emotions.
The study also highlights the importance of faith as a source of comfort and connection for many Moroccans. As one participant described, ‘Reading the Qur’an or praying helps me feel connected to God. That eases loneliness.’
However, professional help remains distrusted, and there are signs that this mindset is shifting, particularly among younger generations. As one young woman noted, ‘Our generation talks more openly about depression, burnout, isolation.’
The study’s findings have significant implications for our understanding of loneliness and social connection. By recognizing the cultural complexities of loneliness, we can begin to develop more effective strategies for addressing this issue and promoting genuine human connection.
Ultimately, the study’s message is a powerful one: that loneliness is not just a problem of empty rooms and absent people, but also of a culture that values social connection above all else.
