I’m in Sweden which in many cultural respects is the polar opposite of the US (within the West at least). But loneliness seems to be a major societal issue here as well. Where the US is self-reliant Sweden is probably “state-reliant”, but the effect is similar.
It has its upsides though. My parents were abusive and our relationship is very limited today. Limiting contact with them is the best decision I’ve made in my life, and I’m not sure I would have been able to do that in a culture with stronger familial bonds.
It has its upsides though. My parents were abusive and our relationship is very limited today. Limiting contact with them is the best decision I’ve made in my life, and I’m not sure I would have been able to do that in a culture with stronger familial bonds.