Understanding perceived loneliness: a multifaceted approach
| Date | 30 January 2024 |
| Pages | 1051-1063 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-10-2023-0114 |
| Published date | 30 January 2024 |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care,Mental health,Social inclusion |
| Author | Vaishnavi Sharma |
Understanding perceived loneliness: a
multifaceted approach
Vaishnavi Sharma
Abstract
Purpose –This paper aimsto understandloneliness with a special focus on perceived lonelinessusing a
multifacetedapproach.
Design/methodology/approach –To the best of the author’s knowledge, this appears to be the first
paper dedicated to investigating the perception of loneliness as its primary topic. Unfortunately, not
much work is availableon this specific focus. However, various facetsand dimensions can be integrated
to gain a better understanding.Therefore, the author has carefully selected foursections, each focusing
on different aspectsof loneliness. These sections can contribute to a betterunderstanding of loneliness,
keepingin mind its perception.
Findings –Section one examines the cognitive processes and self-assessment mechanisms
that set lonely individuals apart from their non-lonely counterpa rts. These include heightened
awareness, negative social cue interpretation and increased sensitivity to soci al threats. Section
two examines the predictors of loneliness and associated e motional responses. This includes
factors such as emotional responses, attributions, duration and sit uational variables. Section three
challenges conventional definitions of loneliness by introducing soci al asymmetry. Within this
framework, personality traits such as extraversion emerge as resilient ag ainst loneliness, even in
social isolation. Section four discusses the significant influence of c ultural diversity on perceptions
of loneliness. Collectivist cultures rely on familial and community support to combat loneli ness,
whereas individualistic cultures require interventions that prom ote independence.
Originality/value –This comprehensive examination contributes insights for informing targeted
interventions,reinforcing support systems and enhancingour understanding of human connectivity in an
increasinglyisolated world.
Keywords Perceived loneliness, Multifaceted exploration, Social interaction patterns,
Predictors and responses, Social asymmetry, Cultural variability
Paper type Literature review
1. Introduction
Loneliness may be defined as a psychological state marked by perceived social isolation,
emotional distress and a lack of fulfilling social connections, im pacting mental and physical
well-being. Its links with depression, anxiety and various health issues make it a cru cial topic of
research. The purpose of this literature review is to comprehensively explore and an alyse the
multifaceted concepts related to loneliness, with a specific foc us on understanding how
individuals perceive and experience loneliness. The perc eption of loneliness refers to an
individual’s subjective interpretation and awareness of thei r own loneliness, shaped by their
personal experiences, emotions and beliefs. To comprehensively u nderstand it, this paper
delved into several key sections and topics.
Section one explores how lonely people perceive their own loneliness compared to non-
lonely individuals. This dimension examines the self-assessment mechanisms, cognitive
processes, social stigma and self-focus that contribute to one’s sense of loneliness or
social connectedness. Section two explores the emotional responses, attributes, duration
Vaishnavi Sharma was a
student at the University of
Delhi, New Delhi, India.
DOI 10.1108/MHSI-10-2023-0114 VOL. 28 NO. 6 2024, pp. 1051-1063, ©Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 jMENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL INCLUSION jPAGE 1051
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