Retreatism

Retreatism is a form of deviant behavior characterized by rejection of both the cultural goals and the legitimate means to achieve them. Individuals practicing retreatism essentially "drop out" of society. They reject societal values, expectations, and the pursuit of success, choosing instead to withdraw from the world and embrace a life of detachment, often through escapism, substance abuse, or other forms of social isolation. Unlike rebellion, retreatism does not actively challenge societal norms, it simply ignores or avoids them entirely. It represents a passive form of deviance, a complete rejection of the game, signifying a sense of hopelessness and disillusionment with the societal structure.

Retreatism meaning with examples

• Following the economic downturn, many disillusioned citizens adopted retreatism, abandoning aspirations for career advancement or material wealth. They retreated into private lives, finding solace in personal hobbies and rejecting the rat race. This shift reflected a profound sense of helplessness about improving their situations, choosing instead to disengage from societal expectations and pressures, focusing on personal survival and detachment from wider economic concerns.
• Faced with a deeply unequal and polarized political climate, some citizens chose retreatism, opting out of the political process altogether. They became cynical about the ability of government to affect positive change, distancing themselves from voting, activism, and political discourse. Their retreat reflected a loss of faith in the system, preferring to focus on personal well-being rather than engage in what they saw as a futile exercise.
• The artist, feeling suffocated by commercial pressures and the demands of the art world, embraced retreatism. They abandoned public exhibitions and market-driven projects, instead dedicating themselves to creating art purely for personal expression and enjoyment, away from the demands of fame or financial gain. This retreat marked a rejection of the commodification of art and the societal pressure to succeed.
• After suffering a severe personal loss, the individual succumbed to retreatism, isolating themselves from friends, family, and social activities. They found comfort in solitary activities, rejecting the support offered and abandoning their previous routines and commitments. The retreatism was a coping mechanism, driven by a profound sense of grief and a perceived inability to function within the societal context.