Determination of the loneliness level and affecting factors in adolescents

This study aims to determine the loneliness level and affecting factors in adolescents.

This descriptive study was conducted between September 2022 and December 2022 in high schools which were located in a city in eastern Turkey. The sample was composed of 1956 students who were accessed using stratified and simple random sampling methods determined by power analysis. Data collection was performed using the Descriptive Characteristics Form and the UCLA Loneliness Scale-Short Form.

Of the participating students, 67.3% had a hobby for which they spared time regularly, and 92.4%, 89.3%, and 76% were satisfied with their relationships with their mother, father, and friends, respectively. The UCLA Loneliness Scale mean score of the group was 14.23 ± 4.53. The scale mean score was found to be higher in girls; in those who had a stepmother, any speaking disability or a disease; did not have a very close friend; were in love; did not have an occupation or hobby for recreation; were not satisfied with the way they spend their free time, communication with parents and friends, and success in courses; and did not find their allowance adequate (p < 0.05).

This study found that the loneliness level was affected by gender, having a stepmother, having a disease or speaking disability, having a hobby or occupation, communication with individuals in the social environment, and satisfaction with course success and the allowance given by the family.