Loneliness

Loneliness is a common experience that is felt by people of different ages. But, why do we feel lonely and how can those who experience prolonged loneliness be helped to overcome it? In this encyclopedia entry, the evolutionary origins of loneliness are discussed, with a focus on how that evolutionary mechanism can be faulty in such a way that some people experience prolonged loneliness over many years. The fact that there are specific points across development when loneliness peaks will be discussed, and the predictors of prolonged loneliness will be reviewed. The ways in which loneliness can be measured and the cultural differences in the reporting of loneliness are also examined. Finally, the health outcomes of prolonged loneliness are considered, and the need for interventions for those with prolonged loneliness is highlighted.