Reference: von Soest, T., Luhmann, M., & Gerstorf, D. (2020). The development of loneliness through adolescence and young adulthood: Its nature, correlates, and midlife outcomes. Developmental Psychology, 56(10), 1919–1934. https://doi.org/10.1037/dev0001102 Loneliness is a complex emotion that changes during adolescence and young adulthood. European Psychologists investigated the change in loneliness across adolescence to young adulthood. Psychologists conducted a longitudinal study in Norway that tracked the loneliness of over 3000 Norwegians ages 13-31 years four times from 1992 - 2005. The researchers used measures to capture emotional loneliness (the absence of emotional intimacy and understanding in relationships) and social loneliness (the absence of a broader support network of friends, neighbors, or colleagues). Results? Loneliness increased across adolescence but displayed distinct patterns: emotional loneliness rose, while social loneliness network decreased and plateaued in the mid-20s. Women reported higher emotional loneliness, while men reported more social loneliness. Perceiving one’s parents as caring, having close friends, and not leaving the parental home before age 18 led to reporting less loneliness. Lonely adolescents and young adults were at higher risk for midlife challenges, including disability, lower income, and using prescriptions for anti-depressants. Conclusion? You are not alone! Do something. Reach out to others to reduce your loneliness! Be compassionate with yourself, follow your interests, volunteer in the community, initiate conversations to make friends, and use apps to connect with others.

Written by Jarret Bain B.S.