For all my subjects it is true that, they can be solitary, without harm to themselves and without discomfort. Furthermore, it is true for almost all of them that they positively like solitude and privacy to a definitely greater degree than the average person. The dichotomy "introvert-extrovert" applies hardly at all to these people and will not be used here. The term that seems to be most useful is "detachment."

It is often possible for them to remain above the battle, to remain unruffled, undisturbed by that which produces turmoil in others. They find it easy to be aloof, reserved, and also calm and serene; thus, it becomes possible for them to take personal misfortunes without reacting violently, as the ordinary person does. They seem to be able to retain their dignity even in undignified surroundings and situations. Perhaps this comes in part from their tendency to stick by their own interpretation of a situation, rather than to rely upon what other people feel or think about the matter.

This quality of detachment may have some connection with certain other qualities as well. For one thing it is possible to call my subjects more objective (in all senses of that word) than average people. We have seen that they are more problem-centered than ego-centered. This is true even when the problem concerns themselves, their own wishes, motives, hopes, or aspirations. Consequently, they have the ability to concentrate, to a degree not usual for ordinary men. Intense concentration produces as a by-product such phenomena as "absent-mindedness," the ability to forget and to be oblivious of other surroundings. An example is the ability to sleep soundly, to have undisturbed appetite, to be able to smile and laugh through a period of problems, worry, and responsibility.

In social relations with most people, detachment creates certain troubles and problems. It is really interpreted by "normal" people as coldness, snobbishness, lack of affection, unfriendliness, or even hostility.
By contrast, the ordinary friendship relationship is more clinging, more demanding, more desirous of reassurance, compliment, support, warmth, and exclusiveness. It is true that self-actualizing people don't "need" others in the ordinary sense. But since this being needed, or being missed, is the usual earmark of friendship, it is evident that detachment will not easily be accepted by average people.