Anomie: meaning, definitions and examples

Used often in sociology to describe a state of society where norms and values are unclear, leading to a breakdown of social bonds and a sense of instability or confusion.

• The rapid industrialization led to anomie, with people feeling disconnected from traditional community values.
• Anomie can contribute to increasing rates of crime and delinquency as people struggle to find their place.

A state where societal norms and expectations are absent or unclear, commonly used in sociological studies to describe environments where rules of behavior are not well defined. This term specifically targets the breakdown of social norms.

• The collapse of the old regime left the society in a state of normlessness.
• In times of social upheaval, normlessness can lead to chaos.

Refers to the feeling of being isolated or estranged from a group or society. It can be used in both social and psychological contexts, often to describe a state where individuals feel disconnected from the community or their own sense of self.

• The new policies at work have caused widespread alienation among employees.
• He felt a deep sense of alienation after moving to a new city where he knew no one.

Generally describes the state of being detached or separated from something or someone. It is often used in a broader sense and can apply to physical, emotional, or social contexts.

• There is a growing disconnection between the government and the citizens.
• The disconnection from his family made him feel lonely during the holidays.