Developing a measure of loneliness.
Research on loneliness has been hindered by the lack of a simple and reliable assessment technique. The development of the UCLA Loneliness Scale, a short, 20-item general measure of loneliness is reported. The measure has high internal consistency (coefficient alpha = .96) and a test-retest correlation over a two-month period of .73. Concurrent and preliminary construct validity are indicated by correlations with self-reports of current loneliness and related emotional states, and by volunteering for a "loneliness clinic."
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008132:Loneliness; D008297:Male; D011581:Psychological Tests; D011594:Psychometrics; D012647:Self-Assessment; D012934:Social Isolation; D013334:Students; D013997:Time Factors