We argue that loneliness possesses a hierarchical, bidimensional, and obliq
ue structure, and draw out implications for psychopathology research. Withi
n a higher-order, unidimensional loneliness construct can be found first-or
der facets of lonelines-lack of Pleasurable Engagement and Painful Disconne
ction. The two first-order factors display differential relations to indice
s of symptoms, negative affect, sociability, and life events, but relate si
milarly to indices of positive affect. Factor-analytic and correlational da
ta from studies on undergraduates were quire consistent with our view, as w
ere preliminary data from youth psychiatric inpatients. Our findings bear o
n the nature and structure of loneliness; we speculate that they may also i
nform research on psychopathology and therapeutics.