Relating to or characterized by anomie. Anomie, in a sociological context, describes a state of social instability resulting from a breakdown of standards and values, a lack of social or ethical norms, or a general feeling of isolation and alienation. It can manifest as a sense of rootlessness, normlessness, or purposelessness, leading to increased rates of deviant behavior, crime, and psychological distress. It can also be applied to a personal state, describing an individual's feelings of isolation or alienation due to a lack of clear direction or moral compass. The concept highlights the importance of social cohesion and shared values in maintaining individual and societal well-being. It is the state when an individual or society lacks the standards or values.
Anomic meaning with examples
- The rise in youth crime rates in the city was attributed by sociologists to an anomic environment, with a decay of traditional family structures and weakened community bonds contributing to a sense of meaninglessness among young people. They lacked clear guidance and purpose, which left them feeling adrift.
- Following the economic collapse, the community experienced widespread anomic behavior. The established rules were no longer holding, which resulted in a surge of looting and social unrest, indicating a breakdown in collective norms. The lack of a defined standard caused an anomic reality.
- The protagonist's downward spiral, marked by substance abuse and reckless behavior, reflected an anomic state stemming from a failure to find satisfying work after being fired, which led to a loss of his sense of identity and social connection. The life he once knew was gone.
- The constant exposure to violence and corruption in the news created an anomic environment for the citizenry, fueling distrust in institutions and making people feel powerless to effect positive change. They no longer respected the local authorities.
Anomic Synonyms
alienated amoral chaotic disorganized disoriented isolated lawless normless purposeless rootless unprincipled unregulatedAnomic Antonyms
cohesive connected ethical integrated moral normative ordered principled purposeful regulated structuredAnomic Crossword Answers
9 Letters
ALIENATED
11 Letters
DISORIENTED