Study of Predictors of Social and Emotional Loneliness among Female College Students

This study examined the predictors of social and emotional loneliness among college students. This study examined only female students (n = 300). The following tests were administered: Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale, Experiences in Close Relationships, Self rating Depression Scale and IPATs Anxiety scale. The average age of participants was 22.23 (SD = 1.25). Results revealed that for social loneliness, avoidant attachment, depression and factor C(-) (Ego Weakness, lack of ego strength) emerged as salient predictors. On the other hand for family loneliness, avoidant attachment and depression emerged as saline predictors whereas for romantic loneliness, avoidant attachment, anxious attachment and depression emerged as salient predictors. The present results expand the literature on attachment by presenting evidence that anxious and avoidant females experience loneliness differently.