Multidimensional Loneliness Measure: The Loneliness Rating Scale (LRS)

Interest in the topic of loneliness has resulted in the development of a number of global, unidimensional instruments used for measuring current levels of loneliness. A new, multidimensional scale, the Loneliness Rating Scale (LRS), is introduced. This 40-item scale assesses the frequency and intensity of particular affects reported by lonely individuals. Results of a factor analytic procedure suggest that the LRS contains four affective dimensions: Depletion, Isolation, Agitation, and Dejection. The theoretical implications of these results are presented, along with information concerning the usage and scoring of the LRS.