The case for a hierarchical, oblique, and bidimensional structure of loneliness

Citation
Te. Joiner et al., The case for a hierarchical, oblique, and bidimensional structure of loneliness, J SOC CLIN, 18(1), 1999, pp. 47-75
Citations number
64
Categorie Soggetti
Psycology
Journal title
JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
ISSN journal
07367236 → ACNP
Volume
18
Issue
1
Year of publication
1999
Pages
47 - 75
Database
ISI
SICI code
0736-7236(199921)18:1<47:TCFAHO>2.0.ZU;2-2
Abstract
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.