Spatial loneliness in everyday life: Significance of loneliness for mental health

Author(s): Barkmann, C.

Journal/Book: Z Klin Psychol Psychiatr Psyc. 1999; 47: Postfach 2540, W-4790 Paderborn, Germany. Verlag Ferdinand Schoningh. 141-154.

Abstract: The present study examined the experiencing and coping with aloneness, the capacity to be alone, and its relationship to loneliness and mental health. Aloneness was conceptualized with regard to location, time, behavior, emotions, body reactions, attributional style, attitude, and preference of aloneness vs. Togetherness. The relationship between these variables and the capacity to be alone, mental health, and loneliness was investigated. A total of 196 students completed a questionaire packet consisting of the Multidimensional Loneliness Questionnaire by Schwab, the Mental Health Scale by Becker, and other scales. Results reveal a predominantly positive experiencing of alonness. The capacity to be alone correlated highly positive with the aloneness dimensions General Well-being, Relational Security, and Emotional Arousal; however it was relatively independent of the objective characteristics of aloneness (time, location, behavior). It was positively correlated with mental health and negatively with loneliness. A more differentiated view of aloneness is recommended, which takes into account both stressful and constructive aspects.

Note: Article Schwab R, Univ Hamburg, Psychol Inst 3, Von Melle Pk 5, D-20146 Hamburg, GERMANY

Keyword(s): PEOPLE

Zurück | Weiter