A matter of touch - Designing clothing to address touch deprivation among young adults

Abstract

Touch deprivation, a largely unrecognized phenomenon that affects approximately 54% of people globally, has a significant negative impact on the well-being of these individuals. Having physical connections is a fundamental part of the human experience whether it is a warm hug from a loved one or a comforting pat on the shoulder. However, touching often has a stigma around it, and expressing touch-related needs can be a difficult task. The aim of the project was to understand the needs, difficulties, and overall experiences of touch-deprived young adults (18-30) and based on the findings design to improve their well-being. This led to the concept of a clothing line consisting of pieces designed for connections, comfort, and awareness.

Through a series of qualitative research activities with the target group, we could see that it is mainly a struggle among young adults who live far from their families and friends, long-distance couples, and individuals struggling with social anxiety or other mental health issues. Touch deprivation is a complex issue, influenced by other life experiences and often intertwined with the feeling of loneliness, anxiety, emotional regulation, and can lead to low self-esteem. However, the absence of touch goes beyond the physical sensations, young adults long for the emotional connections that come with closeness. While technology enables these groups to communicate and stay connected with others over long distances, it fails to satisfy this fundamental human need of social touch and young adults often question the value of even attempting to imitate these connections with devices (e.g. mediated social touch devices – remotely sending tactile sensations to imitate social touch). Although in-person social touch can not be replaced, sensory comfort can offer some relief. Young adults often seek comfort and distractions to avoid dealing with the negative feelings they experience. As found, touch deprivation is a hidden struggle, however, raising awareness of our touch needs is crucial for initiating self-reflection and active mitigation.

Designing garments as a response to address touch deprivation offers a subtle way to embrace these young adults and help with their negative experiences. Clothing not only influences how others perceive us but also how we perform (enclothed cognition). As a visual display, it can convey direct and symbolic messages and as ‘our second skin’ intimately touches our bodies every day. Through the design of these items, the intention is to invite affective social touch – provide sensory comfort to the wearer, act as a catalyst for creating in-person connections, and lastly raise awareness of the personal touch needs and the issue of touch deprivation. The project aims to stimulate and foster real-life connections and challenge the stigma surrounding touch while supporting individual comfort.

Ultimately, this project aspires to enhance the well-being and life experiences of touch-deprived young adults by providing them with designs tailored to their needs. By incorporating subtle messaging within an accessible format (choice of clothing), we aim to empower touch-deprived individuals to take a step toward facing the issue and improving their well-being. The project hopes to make a meaningful impact and spark a broader discussion on the importance of touch in human well-being.