The Pros and Cons of Communal Living for College Students: Health, Cognitive, and Psychological Benefits
Communal living, particularly for college students in shared houses or communes, has been a topic of much debate. Some argue that it can be detrimental to an individual's health, cognitive, and psychological well-being, while others claim it offers substantial benefits. This article explores both sides of the argument to provide a balanced view.
The Potential Hazards: The Dark Side of Communal Living
Communal living, especially in an environment like college, can indeed pose significant risks. Hazing and cruel treatment are unfortunately not uncommon in such settings. For example, fraternity hazing has been linked to severe injuries and even deaths, underscoring the potential dangers that can arise in a group context.
Studies have shown that communal environments can sometimes exacerbate pre-existing psychological conditions or lead to mental health issues. A Psychological Bulletin study (2019) highlighted that students in close living arrangements were more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and depression compared to those living in solitary settings.
The Positive Spin: Benefits of Communal Living
Despite the risks, communal living also offers several advantages, particularly for college students. One of the most significant benefits is the potential for improved social skills and emotional support. Students living in shared housing often develop strong bonds and friendships, which can lead to a sense of belonging and community. For instance, a Social Psychological and Personality Science study (2018) found that students living in dormitories experienced increased feelings of social integration and reduced loneliness.
Communal living can also foster cognitive development and academic performance. In a Journal of College Student Development (2017) study, researchers discovered that students living in shared housing were more likely to engage in collaborative learning and study groups, which can enhance their cognitive abilities and academic success.
The Personal Experience: 1960s Dorm Life
Personal experiences offer valuable insights into the dynamics of communal living. For instance, during my freshman year at college in 1964, my dormitory was a shared space designed for four students. However, I was fortunate enough to secure a private room, which was a significant improvement over the dormitory’s default setup of two bedrooms and a living room. My roommate, though an unusual 26-year-old European aristocrat, proved to be an invaluable source of humanistic education.
Back then, freshmen were typically 18 years old, and living in such close quarters was expected. However, not every shared space is ideal for everyone. My experience was likely the most humanistic part of my freshman year, but I could have easily ended up in a more challenging situation. For example, some students' experiences might have been akin to that of a nest where the strongest survive and the weakest are neglected or harmed, a phenomenon sometimes observed in some communal bird species, where nestlings peck the weakest to death.
The Conclusion: Balancing the Pros and Cons
While every individual is unique and what works for one person might not work for another, it is clear that communal living can have profound impacts on a student's health, cognitive function, and psychological well-being. It is essential to weigh both the potential benefits and risks to ensure that communal living environments are as supportive and nurturing as possible.
One size simply does not fit all, and generalizations can do a disservice to those who are different. The key to success is flexibility, understanding, and a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where all members feel valued and supported.
Keywords: communal living, benefits of shared housing, college student living, health benefits, psychological benefits