TOPIC. Concept analysis of isolation.
PURPOSE. This article uses Walker and Avant’s methodological approach
in distinguishing the concept of isolation between the normal, ordinary
language usage and the scientific usage of the concept.
BACKGROUND. The importance of social contact has long been recognized
as a fundamental need for humans. The concept of isolation is used
throughout the lay and scientific literature and has a primarily negative
connotation for humans. The experience is sometimes severe enough to
result in serious reductions in adaptation and performance.
DATA SOURCES. The Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases
were searched using the key terms of concept analysis, human, and
isolation with no restriction on the year of publication. English language
reports were used exclusively.
CONCLUSION. Three attributes were identified: sensory deprivation,
social isolation, and confinement. Antecedents included individual perception
and situational dimensions. Consequences included anxiety,
depression, mood disturbances, anger, loneliness, and adverse health
events. Through this concept analysis, isolation has been theoretically
defined as a state in which an individual experiences a reduction in the
level of normal sensory and social input with possible involuntary limitations
on physical space or movement. Systematic studies of isolation
using this concept can ultimately enhance nurses’ knowledge base and
contribute to the quality of life for isolated persons.