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Kuczynski AM, Piccirillo ML, Dora J, Kuehn KS, Halvorson MA, King KM, Kanter JW. Characterizing the momentary association between loneliness, depression, and social interactions: Insights from an ecological momentary assessment study. J Affect Disord 2024; 360:376-386. [PMID: 38823593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that loneliness causes people to feel more depressed. It is unknown, however, why this association occurs and whether momentary versus chronic experiences of loneliness are implicated. Theoretical accounts suggest that momentary feelings of loneliness produce two competing motivations: social reaffiliation and social withdrawal. Social affiliation is protective against depression; social withdrawal, in contrast, is a risk factor. Thus, engaging in frequent and high-quality interactions following experiences of loneliness may protect against subsequent depression. We tested this hypothesis using a random-interval experience sampling design (5x/day/day, 14 days; Nobs = 6568) with a racially/ethnically diverse sample of adults with elevated depression symptoms (N = 102). Momentary loneliness was associated with depressed mood at the same time point and ∼2.5h and ∼5h later. Frequency and quality of social interaction did not moderate these associations. Findings suggest that momentary feelings of loneliness may be an important target for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Kuczynski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, United States of America.
| | | | - Jonas Dora
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Kevin S Kuehn
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, United States of America
| | - Max A Halvorson
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Kevin M King
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Jonathan W Kanter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, United States of America
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Schrempft S, Pullen N, Baysson H, Zaballa ME, Lamour J, Lorthe E, Nehme M, Guessous I, Stringhini S. Mental health trajectories among the general population and higher-risk groups following the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland, 2021-2023. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:277-286. [PMID: 38772508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health deteriorated in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, but improved relatively quickly as restrictions were eased, suggesting overall resilience. However, longer-term follow-up of mental health in the general population is scarce. METHODS We examined mental health trajectories in 5624 adults (58 % women; aged 18-97 years) from the Specchio-COVID19 cohort, using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale-2 and the Patient Health Questionnaire-2, administered each month from February to June 2021, and in Spring 2022 and 2023. RESULTS Depressive and anxiety symptoms declined during a pandemic wave from February to May 2021 (β = -0.06 [-0.07, -0.06]; -0.06 [-0.07, -0.05]), and remained lower at longer-term follow-up than at the start of the wave. Loneliness also declined over time, with the greatest decline during the pandemic wave (β = -0.25 [-0.26, -0.24]). Many higher-risk groups, including socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals, those with a chronic condition, and those living alone had poorer mental health levels throughout the study period. Women and younger individuals had a faster improvement in mental health during the pandemic wave. Loneliness trajectories were associated with mental health trajectories throughout the study period. LIMITATIONS We cannot definitively conclude that the observed changes in mental health were due to experiences of the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS While there was a need for additional mental health support during stricter policy responses to COVID-19, overall, mental health improved relatively soon after measures were eased. Nevertheless, the persistence of mental health disparities highlights the need for further efforts from the government and healthcare practitioners to support vulnerable groups beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Schrempft
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Nick Pullen
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hélène Baysson
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - María-Eugenia Zaballa
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julien Lamour
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elsa Lorthe
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Université Paris Cité, Inserm, INRAE, Centre for Research in Epidemiology and Statistics Paris (CRESS), Paris, France
| | - Mayssam Nehme
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Idris Guessous
- Department of Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Stringhini
- Unit of Population Epidemiology, Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; University Centre for General Medicine and Public Health, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Fleming CE, Rose AL, Franzese AT, Weaver M. Longitudinal changes in depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of COVID-related factors. J Clin Psychol 2024; 80:1838-1851. [PMID: 38635345 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study is an investigation of five specific COVID-related stressors and their longitudinal impact on adult depression and anxiety. METHOD A total of 592 adults comprised the initial sample at Time 1 in April/May 2020. Follow-ups were conducted about a month later, again in March 2021 and then in March 2022. RESULTS Applied linear mixed effect models showed a significant decrease in mean depression scores and anxiety scores from Time 1 to both Times 3 and 4. Neither change over time in anxiety or depression were found to be related to COVID diagnosis, COVID hospitalization, or COVID death. Self-quarantine was related to changes over time in both depression and anxiety, and household quarantine was related to changes over time in depression. CONCLUSION While the fallout of the pandemic continues, it is important to understand how these factors may be affecting mental health to better understand where intervention is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abbey L Rose
- Department of Psychology, Elon University, Elon, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexis T Franzese
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Elon Univerity, Elon, NC, USA
| | - Mark Weaver
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Elon University, Elon, NC, USA
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Mayerl H, Schultz A, Freidl W, Stolz E. Short-term dynamics of loneliness and depressive symptoms: Gender differences in older adults. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 123:105423. [PMID: 38554653 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research examining the relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms often treated these constructs as static traits rather than dynamic states. The current study focused on the short-term, prospective link between loneliness and depressive symptoms, while also analyzing potential gender differences. METHODS We modeled panel data from seven bi-weekly assessments gathered in the FRequent health Assessment In Later life (FRAIL70+) study. At baseline, the sample size amounted to N = 426 community-dwelling older adults aged 70 years or older in Austria. The relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms was analyzed using a latent change score modeling framework. RESULTS As regards depressive symptoms, women showed higher initial levels and more change across the three months than men. Loneliness did not considerably change across time for both sexes. Moreover, greater levels of loneliness at a given point in time were associated with an accelerated increase in depressive symptoms two weeks later in women but not in men. CONCLUSION Loneliness appeared to be a potential determinant of future increases in depressive symptoms. The varying effects observed between men and women suggest potential gender differences in short-term fluctuations of depressive symptoms and their underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Mayerl
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Anna Schultz
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Freidl
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Erwin Stolz
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010 Graz, Austria.
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Amendola S, Hengartner MP. From loneliness to severe social isolation and hikikomori. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 97:104084. [PMID: 38815438 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Amendola
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Michael P Hengartner
- Department of Applied Psychology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
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van den Broek T. Loneliness and regular sports participation among people of Turkish and Moroccan origin and native Dutch people in the Netherlands. A longitudinal study. Prev Med 2024; 184:108002. [PMID: 38744378 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.108002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sports participation is lower in people of Turkish and Moroccan origin in the Netherlands than in native Dutch people. Addressing this inequality calls for better insights into antecedents of sports participation in different ethnic groups. Theorists suggested that loneliness may hamper sports participation, and levels of loneliness are high among people of Turkish and Moroccan origin. This study assessed the longitudinal association between loneliness and regular sports participation among Turkish origin, Moroccan origin and native Dutch people. METHODS Data are from Turkish origin (n = 394), Moroccan origin (n = 387) and native Dutch (n = 1663) people who participated in Wave 1 (2008-2010) and Wave 2 (2013) of the Netherlands Longitudinal Lifecourse Study. Regular sports participation at follow-up was regressed on loneliness at baseline in logistic regression models adjusted for baseline sports participation and a range of confounders. Models were stratified by ethnic group. RESULTS Turkish and Moroccan origin people had lower rates of regular sports participation and higher levels of loneliness than native Dutch people. Loneliness at baseline was negatively associated with sports participation at follow-up for people of Turkish and Moroccan origin. No evidence of a longitudinal association between loneliness and sports participation among native Dutch people was found. CONCLUSIONS The demonstrated positive longitudinal association between loneliness and regular sports participation in people of Turkish and Moroccan origin potentially opens new ways to encourage physical activity in these groups. An integrated approach to addressing loneliness and physical inactivity among people with a non-western migration background may benefit the realization of both goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs van den Broek
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Postbus 1738, 3000, DR, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Gao Q, Bone JK, Finn S, Fancourt D. The reciprocal associations between social deficits, social engagement, and inflammation: Longitudinal evidence comparing venous blood samples and dried blood spots and mapping the modifying role of phenotypic and genotypic depression. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 119:120-128. [PMID: 38555990 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social psychoneuroimmunology suggests an interplay between social deficits (loneliness and isolation) and chronic inflammation, but the direction of these relationships remains unclear. We estimated the reciprocal associations of social deficits and social engagement with levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), compared the consistency of the findings depending on the biological sampling method used, and examined the modifying role of phenotypic and genotypic depression. METHODS We used longitudinal nationally representative data from the US (Health and Retirement Study, 3 waves, 2006-16) and England (English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, 4 waves, 2004-18). Loneliness, social isolation, and social engagement were self-reported. CRP was measured using dried blood spots (US) and venous blood samples (England). Cross-lagged panel models were fitted and tested interactions with phenotypic depression (above-threshold depressive symptom scores) and genotypic depression (polygenic score for major depressive disorder). RESULTS We included 15,066 participants (mean age = 66.1 years, SD = 9.8) in the US and 10,290 (66.9 years, SD = 10.5) in England. We found reciprocal associations between loneliness and CRP using dried blood spots and venous blood samples. Higher CRP predicted higher subsequent loneliness and higher loneliness predicted elevated CRP. Both phenotypic and genotypic depression modified this reciprocal association. There were also reciprocal associations for social engagement in venous blood samples: higher CRP predicted lower social engagement and greater social engagement predicted lower subsequent CRP. Associations between social isolation and CRP were inconsistent and unidirectional. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness may increase chronic inflammation, whereas social engagement may reduce inflammation. As these relationships were reciprocal, there may be a loop between inflammation, loneliness, and social engagement. This loop was stronger in those with depression or at high genetic risk for major depressive disorder. This relationship for loneliness was present in both blood sampling methods despite contrasting methods of CRP measurement, indicating that the finding is not attributable to measurement bias in biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gao
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, UK; School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jessica K Bone
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Saoirse Finn
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, UK.
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Halpin A, Tallman M, Boeve A, MacAulay RK. Now or Later? Examining Social and Financial Decision Making in Middle-to-Older Aged Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae070. [PMID: 38685760 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Contextually driven decision making is multidimensional, as individuals need to contend with prioritizing both competing and complementary demands. However, data is limited as to whether temporal discounting rates vary as a function of framing (gains vs loss) and domain (monetary vs social) in middle-to-older aged adults. It is also unclear whether socioaffective characteristics like social isolation and loneliness are associated with temporal discounting. METHODS Temporal discounting rates were examined across monetary gain, monetary loss, social gain, and social loss conditions in 140 adults aged 50-90 during the Omicron stage of the pandemic. Self-report measures assessed loneliness and social isolation levels. RESULTS Results found evidence of steeper temporal discounting rates for gains as compared to losses in both domains. Social outcomes were also more steeply discounted than monetary outcomes, without evidence of an interaction with the framing condition. Socioeconomic and socioaffective factors were unexpectedly not associated with temporal discounting rates. DISCUSSION Community-dwelling middle-to-older aged adults showed a preference for immediate rewards and devalued social outcomes more than monetary outcomes. These findings have implications for tailoring social and financial incentive programs for middle to later adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Halpin
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Morgan Tallman
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Angelica Boeve
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
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Wu D, Liu M, Li D, Yin H. The longitudinal relationship between loneliness and both social anxiety and mobile phone addiction among rural left-behind children: A cross-lagged panel analysis. J Adolesc 2024; 96:969-982. [PMID: 38375869 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Left-behind children are a special group that needs urgent attention. Due to enduring separation from their parents, loneliness is considered the most common and prevalent developmental hurdle in the experiences of left-behind children. This longitudinal cross-lagged study examined the direction of the association between loneliness and both internalizing and externalizing symptoms, with considering gender and left-behind status differences. METHODS A total of 1175 rural Chinese children (48.3% boys, 39.9% left-behind children, Mage = 14.54 ± 1.18 at baseline) completed self-reported loneliness, social anxiety, and mobile phone addiction at two-time points with 6 months intervals. Descriptive statistics, cross-lagged panel analysis, and multiple group analysis were estimated in the present study. RESULTS Loneliness exacerbated social anxiety and mobile phone addiction, and vice versa. In addition, gender and left-behind status moderated these relationships, with boys more likely to be mobile phone addicted due to loneliness and girls more likely to be lonely due to mobile phone addiction. More importantly, left-behind children with loneliness are more prone to social anxiety and mobile phone addiction, and vice versa, compared with non-left-behind children. CONCLUSIONS The targeted interventions should be carried out for different genders and left-behind statuses. Particularly for left-behind children, neglecting to address both the symptoms of loneliness and both social anxiety and mobile phone addiction could significantly undermine the efficacy of intervention programs that solely target either one of these afflictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Wu
- Department of Psychology, School of Education Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cognition and Human Behavior Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Center for Mind & Brain Science, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Menghua Liu
- Department of Psychology, School of Education Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cognition and Human Behavior Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Center for Mind & Brain Science, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Psychology, School of Education Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cognition and Human Behavior Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Center for Mind & Brain Science, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Huazhan Yin
- Department of Psychology, School of Education Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cognition and Human Behavior Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Center for Mind & Brain Science, School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Ernst M, Brähler E, Beutel ME, Kruse J, Andreas S. Socially isolated, but not lonely in lockdown: Exploring the role of reflective functioning as a protective factor in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. J Affect Disord 2024:S0165-0327(24)01042-5. [PMID: 38950870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Loneliness is a pressing public mental health issue. So far, there has been a paucity of investigations focused on the individual differences modulating this subjective feeling in the face of difficult circumstances, e.g., the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, the present study aimed to investigate the role of mentalization; given that the construct comprises reflection abilities that might be particularly relevant to the pandemic's interpersonal challenges. METHODS A survey representative of the German population was conducted from May to June 2020 (N = 2503). We examined mentalization, operationalized as reflective functioning (RF) and measured using the Mentalization Questionnaire (MZQ), both as a protective factor against loneliness on its own and as a moderator of the association of social isolation with loneliness. RESULTS Of the overall sample, 822 (32.8 %) individuals reported social isolation. Worse RF was moderately associated with higher levels of loneliness (r = 0.433, p < .001). A linear regression model (controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and general personality pathology) confirmed this positive association, but also indicated an interaction effect of RF and social isolation in the statistical prediction of loneliness. Stratified models showed that RF was a comparatively weaker statistical predictor of loneliness among the socially isolated. DISCUSSION This representative population study expanded our knowledge about the factors shaping loneliness in the population. RF emerged as a potentially modifiable protective influence. Further research needs to clarify the mechanisms through which it mitigates loneliness. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional design does not give insight into the temporal association of RF and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Ernst
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria.
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Manfred E Beutel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Johannes Kruse
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Gießen, Gießen, Germany
| | - Sylke Andreas
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
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Lucjan P, Bird T, Murray C, Lorimer A. Loneliness and psychotic-like experiences in middle-aged and older adults: the mediating role of selective attention to threat and external attribution biases. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38938159 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2372072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Loneliness has been associated with psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) in the general population, but the mechanisms underlying this association are poorly understood. Theoretical models, corroborated by empirical findings, signify the key role of biased cognition in both loneliness and psychosis. This study tested whether two cognitive biases - Selective Attention to Threat (ATB) and External Attribution Bias (EAB) - account for the association between loneliness and PLEs. METHOD A convenience sample (n = 357) of middle-aged and older adults (aged 40+) was recruited online from the UK population. The parallel mediation model with two the aforementioned cognitive biases as mediators was tested. RESULTS A mediation effect between loneliness and PLEs via ATB (ab1 = 0.441, 95% CI = [0.264, 0.646]) and EAB (ab2 = 0.354, 95% CI [0.124, 0.627] was established. This model remained significant after controlling for the current symptoms of anxiety and depression. CONCLUSION Greater loneliness was associated with a higher rate of PLEs in the sample of middle-aged and older adults. This association was fully explained by ATB and EAB, independent of the current symptoms of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Lucjan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Older Adult Mental Health Service, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Timothy Bird
- School of Health and Social Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Caroline Murray
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Older Adult Mental Health Service, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Angus Lorimer
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Older Adult Mental Health Service, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
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Grocott B, Neta M, Chen F, LeMoult J. Associations of state and chronic loneliness with interpretation bias: The role of internalizing symptoms. Behav Res Ther 2024; 180:104603. [PMID: 38959695 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2024.104603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Loneliness is common and, while generally transient, persists in up to 22% of the population. The rising prevalence and adverse impacts of chronic loneliness highlight the need to understand its underlying mechanisms. Evolutionary models of loneliness suggest that chronically lonely individuals demonstrate negative interpretation biases towards social information. It may also be that such biases are exacerbated by momentary increases in state loneliness, or elevated anxiety or depression. Yet, little research has tested these possibilities. The current study aimed to advance understandings of loneliness by examining associations of chronic loneliness with individual differences in negative interpretation bias for social (relative to non-social) stimuli, and testing whether these associations change in the context of increased state loneliness and current levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. These aims were explored in 591 participants who completed an interpretation bias task before and after undergoing a state loneliness induction. Participants also self-reported chronic loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Linear mixed models indicated that only state (but not chronic) loneliness was associated with more positive interpretations of non-social stimuli, with greater anxiety and depressive symptoms predicting more negative interpretations. Implications of these findings for present theoretical models of loneliness are discussed.
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Lee G, Nemmers N, Russell D. Pre-widowhood social support is linked to loneliness patterns: a growth mixture model using the health and retirement study. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38919075 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2367045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The first aim of the study is to compare loneliness levels between widowed and non-widowed older adults. The second aim is to identify distinct loneliness patterns among widowed individuals and explore the impact of pre-spousal loss social support on loneliness during and after bereavement. METHOD Data from the Health and Retirement Study were utilized to compare loneliness levels between widowed (n = 137) and non-widowed (n = 2361) older adults (Mage = 69.01). T-tests and latent growth curve models were conducted to compare loneliness levels between the two groups. Growth mixture models were computed to identify distinct loneliness patterns among the widowed individuals. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine how pre-widowhood social support was associated with the obtained classes. RESULTS The results revealed that widowed individuals reported significantly higher levels of loneliness at T2. Among widowed individuals, three distinct loneliness patterns were identified: Increased Loneliness (IL) group (n = 32); Low and Stable Loneliness (LSL) group (n = 88); and Decreased Loneliness (DL) group (n = 17). The IL and DL group were less likely to receive social support from spouse, children, and friends compared to the LSL group. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence of the protective effect of pre-widowhood social support on the psychological well-being of older adults after spousal loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Lee
- Center for Demography of Health and Aging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Natasha Nemmers
- Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Daniel Russell
- Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
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Liu T, Wang YH, Ng ZLY, Zhang W, Wong SMY, Wong GHY, Lum TYS. Comparison of networks of loneliness, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms in at-risk community-dwelling older adults before and during COVID-19. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14737. [PMID: 38926445 PMCID: PMC11208589 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65533-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Network analysis provides an innovative approach to examining symptom-to-symptom interactions in mental health, and adverse external conditions may change the network structures. This study compared the networks of common risk factors and mental health problems (loneliness, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms) in community-dwelling older people before and during COVID-19. Older adults (aged ≥ 60) at risk for depression were recruited through non-governmental organizations. Loneliness, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms were measured using the three-item Loneliness Scale (UCLA-3), nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), respectively. Data from 2549 (before) and 3506 (during COVID-19) respondents were included using propensity score matching. Being restless (GAD-7-item5) was most central, indicated by Expected Influence, in both pre and during COVID-19 networks despite low severity (mean score). The network during COVID-19 had higher global strength and edge variability than the pre-pandemic network, suggesting easier symptom spread and potentially more complex symptom presentation. In addition, feeling isolated from others (UCLA-3-item3) had stronger connections with feeling worthless/guilty (PHQ-9-item6) and anticipatory anxiety (GAD-7-item7) during COVID-19 than before. These findings may enhance our knowledge of the symptom structure of common mental health problems and the impacts of the pandemic. Targeting central symptoms may offer novel preventive strategies for older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyin Liu
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Yun-Han Wang
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zuna Loong Yee Ng
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephanie Ming Yin Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gloria Hoi-Yan Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Terry Yat-Sang Lum
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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15
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Blakoe M, Olesen CS, Christensen AV, Palm P, Hoejskov IE, Berg SK. The rise and fall of a social support intervention feasibility trial targeting loneliness in patients with cardiac disease - lessons learned and future perspectives. BMC Nurs 2024; 23:423. [PMID: 38910234 PMCID: PMC11194936 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-02113-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the psychosocial factors recognized for its positive impact on health outcomes among patients with heart disease, is social support provided by network members. However, an increasing number of patients report to experience loneliness. This study addresses the gap in research on the feasibility of an individually structured social support intervention targeting patients treated for cardiac disease who experience loneliness. METHOD A feasibility trial of a 6-month social support intervention targeted patients treated for cardiac disease who experienced loneliness. The intervention involved providing the patient with an informal caregiver, either a person from the patient's social network or a peer, in the long-term rehabilitation phase. Furthermore, the intervention included nurse consultations and motivational text messages. Feasibility was assessed in terms of acceptability and adherence. RESULTS During October 2022-July 2023, n = 464 patients were screened for loneliness and 28 (6.0%) screened positive of which 17 (60.7%) accepted to be contacted and receive additional information about the social support intervention. Of these, 2 (11.8%) accepted participation. The low recruitment rate did not meet the predetermined acceptability criterion of 25%. CONCLUSION This individually structured social support intervention targeting patients treated for cardiac disease who experience loneliness was non-feasible. The study highlights the complexities of engaging lonely patients in a social support intervention program and contributes with valuable insights for future research aiming to develop effective social support interventions tailored to the needs of cardiac patients who experience loneliness. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05503810) 18.08.2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitti Blakoe
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Cathrine S Olesen
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Pernille Palm
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Selina Kikkenborg Berg
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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16
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Liu S, Zeng Z, Qi Q, Yang Q, Hu Y. The Effect of Peer Relationships on Adolescent Loneliness: The Role of Psychological Resilience and the OXTR Gene. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2024; 17:2477-2489. [PMID: 38933337 PMCID: PMC11204807 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s460393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Based on the gene-environment interaction paradigm, this study explored the effect of peer relationships on adolescent loneliness and the role of psychological resilience and the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR). Methods A survey was conducted in a sample of 619 adolescents, and their oral cells were collected for DNA extraction and genotyping. Results The results showed that (1) both peer relationships and psychological resilience significantly affected adolescent loneliness; (2) psychological resilience partially mediated the relationship between peer relationships and loneliness in adolescents; (3) OXTR gene rs53576 polymorphism moderated both the first and second half of the indirect pathway of the mediation model. Specifically, carriers of the rs53576 polymorphism A/A genotype showed a significantly enhanced effect of peer relationships on adolescent psychological resilience, while carriers of the rs53576 polymorphism G/G genotype showed a significantly enhanced effect of psychological resilience on adolescent loneliness. Conclusion These findings helped elucidate the developmental mechanisms of adolescent loneliness in terms of peer relationships, psychological resilience, and OXTR gene polymorphisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangjin Liu
- School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zihao Zeng
- School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Qi
- School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qin Yang
- School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiqiu Hu
- School of Educational Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410006, People’s Republic of China
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17
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Gong X, Bi T, Zhang L, Zhou J. Maternal Depressive Symptoms and Offspring Internalizing Problems: A Cross-Lagged Panel Network Analysis in Late Childhood and Early Adolescence. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024:10.1007/s10802-024-01224-7. [PMID: 38904741 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01224-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigated the relations between maternal depressive symptoms and internalizing problems in offspring during late childhood and early adolescence, examining sex differences using symptom network analysis. A total of 885 Chinese youths in late childhood (n = 497, 38.6% girls; age = 9.58 years, SD = 0.24) and early adolescence (n = 388, 48.5% girls; age = 11.30 years, SD = 0.24) and their mothers (Mage = 37.34 years, SD = 5.42) were recruited. Cross-lagged panel network (CLPN) analysis was used to explore bridge symptoms (i.e., symptoms connecting two or more mental disorders) and identify transmission pathways between maternal depressive symptoms and offspring's internalizing problems at these two developmental stages. The CLPN results revealed that in late childhood, the bridge connections in the network model were boys feeling worried to mothers feeling distractible, and girls feeling worried to mothers feeling powerless. In early adolescence, the bridge connections were boys experiencing depressed mood to mothers feeling powerless, and mothers feeling bad to girls experiencing depressed mood. These findings highlight the network-level relations between maternal depressive symptoms and offspring internalizing problems. They provide insights into the developmental differences and similarities in symptoms during these periods and suggest ways to break the vicious cycle of psychopathology between mothers and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Gong
- Department of Psychology, Normal College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Tiantian Bi
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Assessment toward Basic Education Quality, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- School of Psychology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- School of Psychology, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Kim K, Chang SM, Hahm BJ, Kim BS. Association of loneliness with mental disorders in Korean adults: national mental health survey of Korea 2021. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02702-5. [PMID: 38900246 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02702-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Loneliness is a risk factor for mental and physical disorders. Rapid individualization, with increasing associated social burden, is a contributing factor to loneliness among Koreans. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between loneliness and mental disorders, as well as to determine whether long-term loneliness is a factor predicting the occurrence of mental disorders in adults. METHODS The National Mental Health Survey of Korea 2021, a nationally representative survey on mental disorders, was conducted. Responses from 5511 participants were collected using the Korean version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition, Structured Clinical Interview for Internet Gaming Disorder, and the World Health Organization Adult Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) self-report scale. Loneliness and its duration were investigated among these participants. RESULTS Loneliness was reported by approximately 2.9% of the general population. Loneliness was associated with an increased adulthood prevalence of alcohol use disorders, nicotine use disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and internet gaming disorders. Long-term loneliness was significantly associated with an elevated risk of alcohol use disorders, nicotine use disorders, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Internet gaming disorder was associated with loneliness lasting > 1 year. CONCLUSION Various adult psychiatric disorders were associated with loneliness. The significant dose-effect relationship indicated the importance of early detection of and intervention for loneliness to reduce its negative consequences on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungmin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Man Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Bong-Jin Hahm
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Soo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
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19
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Vasan S, Lim MH, Eikelis N, Lambert E. Investigating the relationship between early cardiovascular disease markers and loneliness in young adults. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14221. [PMID: 38902298 PMCID: PMC11190220 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65039-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Loneliness is recognised as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease development. However, it is unclear whether loneliness itself or other closely related mental health symptoms, such as depression and social anxiety, are associated with the development of cardiovascular disease. In the present study, we examined the relationship between loneliness and several early cardiovascular disease markers in young adults, after controlling for depression and social anxiety. Sixty-six young adults (18-35 years old, Mage = 22.70; 75.8% females) completed psychological questionnaires and took part in several physiological tests assessing cardiovascular health (e.g., vascular function). Results revealed higher loneliness was significantly associated with shorter pulse transit time (β = - 0.70, p = 0.002; shorter pulse transit time is a subclinical marker for arterial stiffness). Additionally, results show that while loneliness and depression were both related to vascular dysfunction in young adults, the underlining physiological mechanisms through which they affect vascular function may be different. Specifically, higher loneliness was associated with increased arterial stiffness, whereas depression was associated with increased endothelial dysfunction (β = - 0.43, p = 0.04). Our findings indicate that presence of loneliness and depression in young adults may be accompanied by early indicators of poor cardiovascular health, such as arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction. Results from the study further support the link between loneliness and cardiovascular disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Vasan
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, 3122, Australia.
- Department of Mental Health Services, St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Michelle H Lim
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, 3122, Australia
- Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nina Eikelis
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, 3122, Australia
| | - Elisabeth Lambert
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, 3122, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
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20
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Camacho D, Pacheco K, Moxley J, Aranda MP, Reid C, Wethington E. Loneliness and global cognitive functioning in racially and ethnically diverse US midlife and older adults. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1344044. [PMID: 38962235 PMCID: PMC11221402 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1344044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Few studies have examined the association of loneliness and cognitive functioning in the US. We used two common measures of loneliness and examined their association in a large sample of US Black, Latino, and White adults (ages ≥ 50). Methods We analyzed Wave 3 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (N = 2,757). We examined loneliness using one item from the CES-D and the Felt Loneliness Measure (NFLM); cognitive functioning was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tool, where higher scores indicated better functioning. We used weighted ordinary least squares regressions to examine the effects of loneliness (CES-D loneliness and NFLM in separate models) on MoCA scores. In exploratory analyses, we examined if these relationships varied by race and ethnicity. We adjusted all models for sociodemographic and other salient factors (e.g., chronic disease, depressive symptoms, living alone). Results Mean age was 63.49 years, 52% were female, and 9% were Black and 6% Latino persons. Approximately 54% endorsed feeling lonely on at least one measure; 31% (CES-D) and 46% (NFLM). The relationship between loneliness measures was positive and significant, X 2 (1, N = 2,757) = 435.493 p < 0.001. However, only 40% of lonely individuals were identified as lonely on both assessments. CES-D loneliness was inversely (βˆ = -0.274, p = 0.032) associated with MoCA scores and this association did not vary by race and ethnicity. Greater NFLM loneliness was positively associated (βˆ = 0.445, p < 0.001) with higher MoCA scores for Latino participants only. Discussion Loneliness appears to be an important predictor of cognitive functioning. However, the association of loneliness and cognitive functioning varied when using the CES-D loneliness item or the NFLM. Future work is needed to understand how loneliness and its clinically relevant dimensions (social, emotional, existential, chronicity) relate to global and individual cognitive domains. Research is needed with racially and ethnically diverse midlife and older adults, particularly to understand our counterintuitive finding for Latino participants. Finally, findings also support the need for research on interventions to prevent cognitive decline targeting loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Camacho
- Department of Disability and Human Development, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kelly Pacheco
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jerad Moxley
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria P. Aranda
- USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Cary Reid
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elaine Wethington
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
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21
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Kanterman A, Scheele D, Nevat M, Saporta N, Lieberz J, Hurlemann R, Shamay-Tsoory S. Let me in: The neural correlates of inclusion motivation in loneliness. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:399-408. [PMID: 38897307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While it is well-established that humans possess an innate need for social belonging, the neural mechanisms underlying motivation for connection are still largely unknown. We propose that inclusion motivation - measured through the effort that individuals are willing to invest to be included in social interactions - may serve as one of the basic building blocks of social behavior and may change in lonely individuals. METHODS Following the screening of 303 participants, we scanned 30 low- and 28 high-loneliness individuals with functional magnetic resonance imaging while they performed the Active Inclusion Task (AIT). The AIT assesses the participants' levels of effort invested in influencing their inclusion during classic Cyberball conditions of fair play and exclusion. RESULTS High- compared to low-loneliness individuals showed higher urgency for inclusion, specifically during fair play, which correlated with higher activity in the right thalamus. Furthermore, in high-loneliness individuals, we found increased functional connectivity between the thalamus and the temporoparietal junction, putamen, and insula. LIMITATIONS Participants interacted with computerized avatars, reducing ecological validity. Additionally, although increasing inclusion in the task required action, the physical demand was not high. Additional limitations are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Inclusion motivation in loneliness is heightened during fair but not exclusionary interactions, and is linked to activity in brain regions implicated in appetitive behavior and social cognition. The findings indicate that lonely individuals may view threat in inclusionary interactions, prompting them to take action to regain connection. This suggests that inclusion motivation may help explain social difficulties in loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kanterman
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
| | - D Scheele
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany; Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - M Nevat
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - N Saporta
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - J Lieberz
- Section of Medical Psychology, Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - R Hurlemann
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstrasse 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; Research Center Neurosensory Science, University of Oldenburg, Melander Heerstrasse 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - S Shamay-Tsoory
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
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22
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Sung P, Lim-Soh J, Lee JML, Chan A. Stress and Loneliness Among Family Caregivers of Older Persons With Cognitive Impairment: The Mediating Role of Social Isolation and the Moderating Role of Personal Mastery. J Aging Health 2024:8982643241262374. [PMID: 38881150 DOI: 10.1177/08982643241262374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Relatively little attention has been paid to the underlying processes and conditions leading to loneliness among caregivers of older persons with cognitive impairment (PCI). Drawing upon the caregiver stress-process model and the social relationship expectations framework, this study examined the mediating role of social isolation and the moderating role of caregiver personal mastery in the association between PCI memory and behavioral problems and caregiver loneliness. METHODS Structural equation modeling was applied to cross-sectional data from 266 caregivers in Singapore. RESULTS Caregiver-reported PCI memory and behavioral problems were associated with increased levels of caregiver loneliness. Caregiver social isolation partially mediated the association and caregiver personal mastery moderated the association. DISCUSSION Caregivers with low mastery were more likely to experience loneliness due in part to social isolation resulting from their PCI's memory and behavioral problems. Tailored interventions should address caregiver social isolation and foster caregiver personal mastery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pildoo Sung
- Department of Sociology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Jeremy Lim-Soh
- Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - June May-Ling Lee
- Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Angelique Chan
- Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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23
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Fahy M, Barry M. Investigating the interplay of loneliness, computer-mediated communication, online social capital, and well-being: insights from a COVID-19 lockdown study. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1289451. [PMID: 38946729 PMCID: PMC11211625 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1289451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent studies have found that there is scope for communication technologies to increase online social capital. Although studies have linked online social capital and mental well-being, there is a need to identify the causal pathways within this relationship. This study explores the role of loneliness in the relationship between computer-mediated communication, online social capital and well-being. Methods The study used an online questionnaire and had 217 participants. William's 2006 scale was used to measure individuals' online social capital, and structural equational modelling (SEM) was used to explore the relationship between computer-mediated communication, use, levels of loneliness, online social capital and well-being. This study was conducted remotely during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Ireland. Results High levels of online communication mitigated the otherwise negative effects of loneliness on well-being when online interaction fostered online social capital. Conclusion Overall, the proposed model offers qualified support for the continued analysis of technology-mediated communication as a potential source for building online social capital and improving the well-being of particular individuals with high levels of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Fahy
- University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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24
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Cala VC, Ortega F. Understanding the Sociocultural Dynamics of Loneliness in Southern Spanish Youth. Cult Med Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s11013-024-09861-9. [PMID: 38864972 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-024-09861-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Loneliness among young people has been increasing in recent years and is considered a major public health problem. This article delves into the sociocultural dynamics that favour the experiences of loneliness. For this purpose, 40 students between 19 and 24 years of age were interviewed using the photo elicitation interview (PEI) strategy. The results show a gradual normalization of the experience of loneliness and an effort to become accustomed to it. Virtual relationships and isolation linked to the COVID-19 pandemic are considered the two factors that have most enabled a climate prone to loneliness. Young people identify a few elements that feed social loneliness, such as an understanding of instrumental relationships, a scarcity of intimate relationships, a demand for hyperconnectivity, a fantasy of independence and a culture of positivity that hinders the establishment of quality social ties. Faced with hostile relational conditions, youth are sent into a cycle of loneliness. The greater the distrust of the environment is, the greater the defensive reactions and social distancing, and the greater the search for nearby spaces of refuge, security and shelter. Social withdrawal makes in-person relationships difficult and strengthens the need to isolate and become accustomed to loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica C Cala
- Research Methods Department, University of Almeria, Crtra sacramento s/n 04120 (2.11 office, central building), Almería, Spain.
| | - Francisco Ortega
- Medical Anthropology Research Center (MARC), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Kaneko M, Shinoda S, Nakayama I, Xu J, Yagome S, Goto A. Usual source and better quality of primary care are associated with lower loneliness scores: a cross-sectional study. Fam Pract 2024; 41:312-320. [PMID: 37116200 PMCID: PMC11167986 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmad049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness is a global issue, and primary care physicians play an important role in assessing and intervening with loneliness. This study aimed to examine the association between having a usual source of care (USC) or a good quality of primary care, and loneliness. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in Japan in 2022. A total of 6,000 residents were randomly sampled from the general population, aged 20-74 years. The outcome was the total score of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) 3-item loneliness scale. The exposure included USC and the Person-Centered Primary Care Measure (PCPCM), which assesses the quality of primary care. We conducted a linear regression analysis to adjust for age, sex, educational status, annual household income, self-rated health, living status (whether alone or not), and the existence of physical health problems. RESULTS Of the 6,000 residents, 1,277 responded to the survey. The median score of the UCLA 3-item loneliness scale was 6.0 and the mean total score of the PCPCM was 2.62. Of the 1,277 individuals, 713 (55.8%) had USC. Having USC was significantly associated with lower scores on the UCLA 3-item loneliness scale; the coefficient was -0.34 (95% confidence interval (CI): -0.57 to -0.12). Also, the total PCPCM score was significantly associated with lower loneliness scores; the coefficient was -0.56 (P < 0.001, 95% CI: -0.78 to -0.35). CONCLUSIONS Having USC and a better quality primary care were associated with a lower loneliness score. The quality of primary care could be a factor to mitigate patient loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Kaneko
- Department of Health Data Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Satoru Shinoda
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Izumi Nakayama
- Unit of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Atsushi Goto
- Department of Health Data Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
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26
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Stickley A, Isaksson J, Koposov R, Schwab-Stone M, Sumiyoshi T, Ruchkin V. Loneliness and posttraumatic stress in U.S. adolescents: A longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:113-119. [PMID: 38852860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and posttraumatic stress (PTS) are common in adolescence. However, there has been little longitudinal research on their association. To address this deficit, this study examined the longitudinal association between these phenomena in a sample of U.S. school students while also exploring if gender was important in this context. METHODS Data were analysed from 2807 adolescents (52.1 % female; age at baseline 11-16 years (M = 12.79)) who were followed over a one-year period. Information was obtained on loneliness in year 1 using a single-item question, while PTS was assessed with the self-report Child Post-Traumatic Stress - Reaction Index (CPTS-RI). A full path analysis was performed to assess the across time associations. RESULTS Almost one-third of the students reported some degree of loneliness while most students had 'mild' PTS. In the path analysis, when controlling for baseline PTS and other covariates, loneliness in year 1 was significantly associated with PTS in year 2 (β = 0.06, 95%CI: 0.02, 0.09). Similarly, PTS in year 1 was significantly associated with loneliness in year 2 (β = 0.19, 95%CI: 0.15, 0.23). An interaction analysis further showed that loneliness was higher in girls with PTS than in their male counterparts. LIMITATIONS The use of a single-item measure to assess loneliness that used the word 'lonely' may have resulted in underreporting. CONCLUSION Loneliness and PTS are bidirectionally associated in adolescence. Efforts to reduce loneliness in adolescence may help in combatting PTS, while clinicians should intervene to address loneliness if detected in adolescents with PTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Stickley
- Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Johan Isaksson
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roman Koposov
- Regional Center for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mary Schwab-Stone
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tomiki Sumiyoshi
- Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan; Japan Health Research Promotion Bureau, Toyama, Shinnjiku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Vladislav Ruchkin
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Regional forensic psychiatric clinic Sala, Sala, Sweden
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Komatsu T, Fraune MR, Tsui KM, Suda S, Kobayashi M. How did COVID-19 pandemic affect the older adults' needs for robot technologies in Japan?: comparison of participatory design workshops during versus after the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Robot AI 2024; 11:1363243. [PMID: 38894894 PMCID: PMC11184464 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2024.1363243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Social technology can improve the quality of social lives of older adults (OAs) and mitigate negative mental and physical health outcomes. When people engage with technology, they can do so to stimulate social interaction (stimulation hypothesis) or disengage from their real world (disengagement hypothesis), according to Nowland et al.'s model of the relationship between social Internet use and loneliness. External events, such as large periods of social isolation like during the COVID-19 pandemic, can also affect whether people use technology in line with the stimulation or disengagement hypothesis. We examined how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the social challenges OAs faced and their expectations for robot technology to solve their challenges. We conducted two participatory design (PD) workshops with OAs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, OAs' primary concern was distanced communication with family members, with a prevalent desire to assist them through technology. They also wanted to share experiences socially, as such OA's attitude toward technology could be explained mostly by the stimulation hypothesis. However, after COVID-19 the pandemic, their focus shifted towards their own wellbeing. Social isolation and loneliness were already significant issues for OAs, and these were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, such OAs' attitudes toward technology after the pandemic could be explained mostly by the disengagement hypothesis. This clearly reflect the OA's current situation that they have been getting further digitally excluded due to rapid technological development during the pandemic. Both during and after the pandemic, OAs found it important to have technologies that were easy to use, which would reduce their digital exclusion. After the pandemic, we found this especially in relation to newly developed technologies meant to help people keep at a distance. To effectively integrate these technologies and avoid excluding large parts of the population, society must address the social challenges faced by OAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Komatsu
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marlena R. Fraune
- Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | | | - Shogo Suda
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mizuki Kobayashi
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
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28
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Fan K, Seah B, Lu Z, Wang T, Zhou Y. Association between loneliness and mild cognitive impairment in older adults: a meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38825970 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2358079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prior studies reporting the effects of loneliness on mild impairment cognitive (MCI) have generated inconsistent results. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between loneliness and risk of MCI among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults. METHOD Five electronic databases were searched from inception to 9 May 2023. Eligible studies examined the longitudinal association between loneliness and cognitive outcomes, including incident MCI, cognitive impairment, and cognitive decline. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects or fixed-effects meta-analysis. Sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted. Publication bias was examined using Egger's and Begg tests. RESULTS Eight studies were included. Among the 45,032 participants, 10,570 were diagnosed with MCI/cognitive decline. Loneliness was positively associated with an increased risk of MCI (overall OR = 1.14; 95% CI = 1.05, 1.23), with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 44.2%). Sensitivity analysis have minimal influence on the aforementioned pooled effect. Subgroup analyses indicated stronger associations in studies which employed incident MCI as cognitive outcome (OR = 2.55, 95%CI = 1.31, 1.83), were conducted in non-Asia countries (OR = 1.52, 95%CI = 0.95, 1.20), and reported no depression adjustment (OR = 1.51, 95%CI = 1.04, 1.25). The association between loneliness and MCI was stronger among males compare to females. The Egger test and Begg test showed no evidence of significant publication bias (p = .493; p = .474). CONCLUSION The findings indicated that loneliness was associated with an increased risk of MCI. Future longitudinal studies should evaluate potential cases of MCI through comprehensive clinical assessments by practitioners to draw robust findings on the association of loneliness with MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Fan
- School of Nursing, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Betsy Seah
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhiyuan Lu
- School of Nursing, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Tao Wang
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Yunping Zhou
- School of Nursing, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, P.R. China
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Calderon Leon MD, Guassi Moreira JF, Saragosa-Harris NM, Waizman YH, Sedykin A, Peris TS, Silvers JA. Parent and Friend Relationship Quality and Links to Trajectories of Loneliness During the First Year of College. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:680-694. [PMID: 36152130 PMCID: PMC9510327 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01416-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Beginning college involves changes that can increase one's vulnerability to loneliness and associated negative outcomes. Parent and friend relationships are potential protective factors against loneliness given their positive association with adjustment. The present longitudinal study, with data collection at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months later, assessed the comparative effects of self-reported parent and friend relationship quality on loneliness in first-year college students (N = 101; 80 female, Mage = 18.36). At baseline, parent and friend relationship quality were negatively associated with loneliness. Longitudinal data revealed that friend relationship quality interacted with time, such that its effects on loneliness attenuated over the course of 2 months. By contrast, parent relationship quality continued to predict lower loneliness 2 months post-baseline. These results highlight the importance of close relationships and suggest that targeting relationship quality could be effective in helping youth transition to college.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D Calderon Leon
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - João F Guassi Moreira
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA.
| | | | - Yael H Waizman
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Anna Sedykin
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Tara S Peris
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Jennifer A Silvers
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA.
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30
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Springstein T, Thompson RJ, English T. Examining situational differences in momentary emotion differentiation and emotional clarity in everyday life. Emotion 2024; 24:947-959. [PMID: 37971849 PMCID: PMC11096273 DOI: 10.1037/emo0001311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
People experience momentary fluctuations in how much they differentiate between emotions and how clear they are about what they are feeling. To better understand situational predictors of shifts in emotion differentiation and emotional clarity, we investigated whether individuals are more differentiated and clearer about their emotions in social situations (vs. alone) given that emotions fulfill important social functions. We tested if these within-person associations varied depending on socially relevant individual differences, including age, extraversion, and social connectedness. We also examined whether people are more differentiated and clearer in situations that have previously been processed (i.e., familiar situations) and if this effect was stronger for older (vs. younger) adults. Community adults (N = 290, aged 25-85 years) completed measures of extraversion and social connectedness and then were randomly prompted 6 times a day for 10 days to report on their current emotional experience and situation. Using multilevel structural equation modeling, social context was associated with less positive emotion differentiation and not associated with emotional clarity; these within-person associations did not differ by age, extraversion, or social connectedness. Individuals experienced more differentiated positive emotions and higher emotional clarity than usual when they were in more (vs. less) familiar situations. Familiarity was especially predictive of higher positive emotion differentiation among relatively older (vs. younger) adults. These findings suggest positive emotion differentiation, particularly in familiar situations could be a way in which the quality of one's emotional experience changes with age. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tammy English
- Department of Psychology, Washington University in St. Louis
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31
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Yu L, Li LMW, Tong X. Understanding the link between theory of mind and loneliness among primary school students: A cross-lagged panel model analysis. J Exp Child Psychol 2024; 242:105891. [PMID: 38442684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2024.105891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between theory of mind (ToM) and loneliness as well as the potential moderating effects of parenting style on this association. A total of 689 Chinese third-grade students (341 girls and 348 boys; Mage = 9.23 years, SD = 0.66) were recruited from eight primary schools and were followed from Grade 3 to Grade 5. These students reported their primary caregivers' parenting style in third grade and completed the same ToM task and loneliness questionnaire at each time point from Grade 3 to Grade 5. The study's results indicated a bidirectional relationship between ToM and loneliness, implying that children with less developed ToM abilities tend to feel lonelier and, conversely, that higher levels of loneliness are associated with lower ToM skills. Moreover, the study demonstrated that parenting style influenced the association between ToM and loneliness. Specifically, the impact of ToM at Grade 3 on reducing loneliness at Grade 4 was greater among children who experienced high levels of rejection from their caregivers compared with those with low levels of rejection. In addition, this study found that loneliness at Grade 3 had a greater influence on ToM at Grade 5 for children experiencing low levels of emotional warmth from their caregivers than for those who experienced high levels of emotional warmth. These findings highlight the significance of ToM as both a precursor and consequence of children's loneliness and emphasize the variation in these longitudinal relationships based on the parenting styles of primary caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Yu
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
| | - Liman Man Wai Li
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Xiuhong Tong
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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32
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Stokes JE, Farmer H. Dyadic loneliness, age, and cognitive functioning among midlife and older Black couples. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:882-890. [PMID: 38047614 PMCID: PMC11144563 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2288862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Within marriages, loneliness has been linked with individuals' own and their partners' cognitive health. Yet little research has situated Black older adults within a relational, dyadic context. Method: This study analyzed longitudinal dyadic data from the Health and Retirement Study (2010-2016; n = 1270 participants from 635 couples) from both partners in opposite-sex midlife and older couples where at least one partner reported being Black or African American. Results: Results indicated (1) husbands' loneliness was associated with worse cognitive functioning 4 years later for wives who had high baseline cognitive functioning themselves; (2) wives' loneliness was associated with worse cognitive functioning 4 years later only for oldest-old husbands; and (3) wives' cognitive functioning was associated with slower increases to husbands' loneliness 4 years later. Conclusion: Findings indicate that loneliness has dyadic consequences for cognitive functioning among older Black couples, but that context is crucial for determining who is at greatest risk of harmful repercussions from a partner's loneliness.
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Hall LM, Moussa-Tooks AB, Sheffield JM. Associations between social engagement, internalizing symptoms, and delusional ideation in the general population. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:989-1002. [PMID: 37624462 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delusions are a hallmark feature of psychotic disorders and lead to significant clinical and functional impairment. Internalizing symptoms-such as symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma exposure-are commonly cited to be related to delusions and delusional ideation and are often associated with deficits in social functioning. While emerging studies are investigating the impact of low social engagement on psychotic-like experiences, little work has examined the relationship between social engagement, internalizing symptoms, and delusional ideation, specifically. METHODS Using general population data from the Nathan Kline Institute-Rockland (NKI-Rockland) database (N = 526), we examined the relationships between self-reported delusional ideation, internalizing symptoms, and social engagement and tested four indirect effect models to understand how these factors interrelate. RESULTS Delusional ideation was significantly associated with both increased internalizing symptoms (r = 0.41, p < 0.001) and lower social engagement (r = - 0.14, p = 0.001). Within aspects of social engagement, perceived emotional support showed the strongest relationship with delusional ideation (r = - 0.17, p < 0.001). Lower social engagement was also significantly associated with increased internalizing symptoms (r = - 0.29, p < 0.001). Cross-sectional models suggest that internalizing symptoms have a significant indirect effect on the association between delusional ideation and social engagement. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal that elevated delusional ideation in the general population is associated with lower social engagement. Elevated internalizing symptoms appear to play a critical role in reducing engagement, possibly exacerbating delusional thinking. Future work should examine the causal and temporal relationships between these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Hall
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1601 23rd Ave S, Suite 3057K, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
| | - Alexandra B Moussa-Tooks
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1601 23rd Ave S, Suite 3057K, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
| | - Julia M Sheffield
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1601 23rd Ave S, Suite 3057K, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
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Rapoport CS, Choi AK, Kwakkenbos L, Carrier ME, Henry RS, Levis B, Bartlett SJ, Gietzen A, Gottesman K, Guillot G, Lawrie-Jones A, Mayes MD, Mouthon L, Richard M, Worron-Sauvé M, Benedetti A, Roesch SC, Thombs BD, Malcarne VL. Moderators of Loneliness Trajectories in People with Systemic Sclerosis During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A SPIN COVID-19 Cohort Longitudinal Study. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:352-362. [PMID: 38238585 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10248-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many individuals with systemic sclerosis (SSc) are at heightened risk for COVID-19 related morbidity and isolation due to interstitial lung disease, frailty, and immunosuppressant use. Minimal research has explored loneliness predictors in individuals with chronic illnesses during COVID-19. This study evaluated moderators of loneliness trajectories in individuals with SSc during COVID-19. METHODS Longitudinal data were analyzed across 30 timepoints from April 2020 to May 2022 from 775 adults in the Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) COVID-19 Cohort. Hierarchical linear modeling evaluated cross-level moderators of loneliness trajectories, including marital status, baseline number of household members, number of virtual or telephone one-on-one or virtual group conversations, number of hours spent enjoying in-person household conversations or activities, and satisfaction with quality of in-person household conversations (all in the past week). Level-1 moderation analyses assessed effects of conversation, activity, and satisfaction means and slopes over time. RESULTS Baseline values were not statistically significant moderators of loneliness trajectories. Higher mean (averaged over time) virtual or telephone one-on-one and in-person household conversations, in-person household activity, and in-person household conversation satisfaction were associated with lower loneliness trajectories (ps < .05). The relationship between in-person household conversation satisfaction and loneliness trajectory was statistically significantly but minimally attenuated over time (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS For people with SSc, higher mean conversation, activity, and satisfaction variables were associated with lower levels of loneliness during the pandemic, but changes in these social variables were generally not predictive of changes in loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea S Rapoport
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alyssa K Choi
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Linda Kwakkenbos
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marie-Eve Carrier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Richard S Henry
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Brooke Levis
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Susan J Bartlett
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Amy Gietzen
- National Scleroderma Foundation, Tri-State Chapter, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Amanda Lawrie-Jones
- Scleroderma Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Scleroderma Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Maureen D Mayes
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luc Mouthon
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Autoimmunes Systémiques Rares d'Ile de France, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- APHP-CUP, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | | | - Maureen Worron-Sauvé
- Scleroderma Society of Ontario, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Scleroderma Canada, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Benedetti
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Scott C Roesch
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, 6363 Alvarado Ct., Ste. 103, San Diego, CA, 92120, USA
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Vanessa L Malcarne
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, 6363 Alvarado Ct., Ste. 103, San Diego, CA, 92120, USA.
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35
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Laustsen LM, Christiansen J, Maindal HT, Plana-Ripoll O, Lasgaard M. The longitudinal relation between loneliness and perceived stress: A structural equation modelling analysis of 10,159 individuals. Scand J Public Health 2024; 52:410-418. [PMID: 36794680 DOI: 10.1177/14034948231151716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Prolonged loneliness and severe stress are increasingly recognised as public health concerns and considered risk factors for mental disorders, somatic illnesses and mortality. Loneliness and perceived stress also often co-occur; however, their longitudinal relation remains unclear. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study aiming to investigate the longitudinal relation between loneliness and perceived stress independently of cross-sectional associations and time effects. METHODS Designed as a population-based cohort study with repeated measurements, the present study included individuals aged 16-80 years at baseline who participated in the Danish National Health Survey ('How are you?') in 2013 and 2017 (N = 10,159; response rate = 50%). Structural equation modelling was used to examine associations between loneliness and perceived stress in the total sample and across age groups (i.e., 16-29, 30-64 and 65-80 years). RESULTS The models indicated bidirectional relations between loneliness and perceived stress. The standardized cross-lagged path from loneliness to perceived stress (β: 0.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.08, 0.16), p < 0.001) and from perceived stress to loneliness (β: 0.12, 95% CI (0.07, 0.16), p < 0.001) both corresponded to small effect sizes in the total sample. Additionally, the results indicated strong cross-sectional associations, especially among adolescents and young adults (16-29 years), and high temporal stability, especially among the elderly (65-80 years). CONCLUSIONS Loneliness and perceived stress mutually predict each other over time. The finding of both substantial bidirectional and cross-sectional associations demonstrates an interdependence between loneliness and perceived stress that may be relevant to consider in future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisbeth M Laustsen
- DEFACTUM - Public Health and Health Service Research, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Julie Christiansen
- DEFACTUM - Public Health and Health Service Research, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Helle T Maindal
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Health Promotion, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Oleguer Plana-Ripoll
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Mathias Lasgaard
- DEFACTUM - Public Health and Health Service Research, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
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Aßmann ES, Ose J, Hathaway CA, Oswald LB, Hardikar S, Himbert C, Chellam V, Lin T, Daniels B, Kirchhoff AC, Gigic B, Grossman D, Tward J, Varghese TK, Shibata D, Figueiredo JC, Toriola AT, Beck A, Scaife C, Barnes CA, Matsen C, Ma DS, Colman H, Hunt JP, Jones KB, Lee CJ, Larson M, Onega T, Akerley WL, Li CI, Grady WM, Schneider M, Dinkel A, Islam JY, Gonzalez BD, Otto AK, Penedo FJ, Siegel EM, Tworoger SS, Ulrich CM, Peoples AR. Risk factors and health behaviors associated with loneliness among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Behav Med 2024; 47:405-421. [PMID: 38418709 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-023-00465-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Loneliness may exacerbate poor health outcomes particularly among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the risk factors of loneliness among cancer survivors. We evaluated the risk factors of loneliness in the context of COVID-19 pandemic-related prevention behaviors and lifestyle/psychosocial factors among cancer survivors. Cancer survivors (n = 1471) seen at Huntsman Cancer Institute completed a survey between August-September 2020 evaluating health behaviors, medical care, and psychosocial factors including loneliness during COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were classified into two groups: 'lonely' (sometimes, usually, or always felt lonely in past month) and 'non-lonely' (never or rarely felt lonely in past month). 33% of cancer survivors reported feeling lonely in the past month. Multivariable logistic regression showed female sex, not living with a spouse/partner, poor health status, COVID-19 pandemic-associated lifestyle factors including increased alcohol consumption and marijuana/CBD oil use, and psychosocial stressors such as disruptions in daily life, less social interaction, and higher perceived stress and financial stress were associated with feeling lonely as compared to being non-lonely (all p < 0.05). A significant proportion of participants reported loneliness, which is a serious health risk among vulnerable populations, particularly cancer survivors. Modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and psychosocial stress were associated with loneliness. These results highlight the need to screen for unhealthy lifestyle factors and psychosocial stressors to identify cancer survivors at increased risk of loneliness and to develop effective management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena S Aßmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jennifer Ose
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Cassandra A Hathaway
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Laura B Oswald
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sheetal Hardikar
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Caroline Himbert
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Tengda Lin
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Anne C Kirchhoff
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Douglas Grossman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jonathan Tward
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Thomas K Varghese
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - David Shibata
- Department of Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jane C Figueiredo
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adetunji T Toriola
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Anna Beck
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Courtney Scaife
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Christopher A Barnes
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Cindy Matsen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Debra S Ma
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Howard Colman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jason P Hunt
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kevin B Jones
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Catherine J Lee
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Tracy Onega
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Wallace L Akerley
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | | | | | - Andreas Dinkel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jessica Y Islam
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Brian D Gonzalez
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amy K Otto
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Frank J Penedo
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
- Departments of Psychology and Medicine, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Erin M Siegel
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shelley S Tworoger
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Anita R Peoples
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Chen YT, Hassett AL, Khanna D, Murphy SL. Resilience partially mediates the association between perceived social isolation and life satisfaction in people with systemic sclerosis. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2024; 9:154-161. [PMID: 38910596 PMCID: PMC11188843 DOI: 10.1177/23971983241232853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Systemic sclerosis (SSc) negatively affects quality of life, yet the factors influencing life satisfaction, a key aspect of well-being, remain unclear in this population. Social isolation is common in SSc, potentially linked to decreased life satisfaction, but the underlying mechanisms are unexplored. Resilience, a modifiable psychological resource, may act as a mediator in this relationship among people with SSc. This study aimed to examine the relationship between perceived social isolation and life satisfaction and to investigate whether resilience mediates this relationship. Methods The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Social Isolation Short Form, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale were used to assess perceived social isolation, resilience, and life satisfaction. Linear regressions were conducted using the PROCESS macro for SPSS. Results Among 163 individuals with SSc who provided complete data at baseline (mean age = 54.7 ± 11.9 years), 47% had diffuse cutaneous SSc, and 57% had an early disease duration. Perceived social isolation was negatively associated with life satisfaction. Resilience partially mediated the association between perceived social isolation and life satisfaction in people with SSc. Conclusions Findings revealed a significant association between perceived social isolation and life satisfaction and the mediating role of resilience in this association among people with SSc. Results suggest resilience may act as a protective mediator, counteracting the negative influence of perceived social isolation on life satisfaction. Findings support the promotion of social connection and resilience to enhance life satisfaction in people with SSc. Clinical Trials Registration # NCT04908943.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen T Chen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Afton L Hassett
- Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Susan L Murphy
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Nicoloro-SantaBarbara J, Lobel M. Loneliness and Its Predictors in Rare Versus Common Chronic Illnesses. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:422-432. [PMID: 37845486 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10231-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness is a growing public health concern associated with substantial negative mental and physical health outcomes. Loneliness is especially relevant for individuals with a chronic illness, perhaps more so if their illness is rare. Little is known about the psychosocial experience of individuals with a rare chronic illness, and whether and how it may differ from the experience of individuals with common chronic illnesses. We compared the magnitude of loneliness in persons with a rare or common chronic illness and examined theoretically guided predictors of loneliness as follows: stigma, illness intrusiveness, social comparison, social support, support from healthcare providers, and self-efficacy. METHOD Individuals with a chronic illness (common or rare) completed an anonymous online survey (N = 952). RESULTS Individuals with common chronic illnesses were as lonely as those with a rare chronic illness. Loneliness in both groups was higher than that in population norms. Regression analyses reveal that independent of other predictors, loneliness was especially high among people who feel stigmatized by others, those who have less social support available, and people whose functioning is more disrupted by their illness (all p values < 0.01). CONCLUSION The similarity of loneliness in these groups reinforces the value of further systematic research to identify the needs of individuals with any type of chronic illness. Study findings highlight the importance of examining internalized stigma and social support as possible targets of intervention to reduce loneliness among individuals with a chronic illness, recognizing some of the unique features and challenges of their disorders, whether common or rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Nicoloro-SantaBarbara
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-2500, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, USA
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Jiang C, Chow JCC, Zhou L, Song H, Shi J. Community support, social isolation and older adults' life satisfaction: evidence from a national survey in China. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:849-857. [PMID: 37921357 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2277871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the recognized importance of community social service and community built facility for enhancing older adults' life satisfaction, the mechanisms underlying their relationship have not been thoroughly examined. This study aims to complement the existing knowledge by investigating the mediating role of social disconnectedness and loneliness in the association between community support and life satisfaction among older adults. METHODS Using data from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey, the study analyzes responses from 9,874 Chinese older adults (mean age = 71.30 years, SD = 7.30). We conducted descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation to explore the variables. This study also used Mplus 8.0 to conduct a path analysis model that evaluated both the direct and indirect effects of community social service and built facility on life satisfaction. Social disconnectedness and loneliness were included as mediating variables in this model. RESULTS The present study results show that both community social service and community built facility are positively associated with life satisfaction among older adults, and community social service is more imporatant for enhancing the life satisfaction. In addition, these associations are mediated by social disconnectedness and loneliness. CONCLUSION Our research suggests that strengthening community social service programs and improving the built environment can reduce social disconnectedness and loneliness among older adults, ultimately enhancing their life satisfaction. Specifically, policymakers can invest in targeted interventions to enhance social connectedness and reduce loneliness, with the goal of improving the overall well-being of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoxin Jiang
- Department of Social Welfare and Risk Management, School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- School of Social Welfare, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Leyi Zhou
- School of Social Welfare, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Hao Song
- School of Government, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaming Shi
- Department of Social Security, School of Public Administration, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, China
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Chen C, Mochizuki Y, Okawa S, Okubo R, Nakagawa S, Tabuchi T. Postpartum loneliness predicts future depressive symptoms: a nationwide Japanese longitudinal study. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024; 27:447-457. [PMID: 38279068 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-024-01424-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified feelings of loneliness, especially among postpartum women. This nationwide Japanese longitudinal study assessed the impact of such feelings on depressive symptoms and mother-to-infant bonding difficulties (MIBD), two pivotal determinants of maternal and infant well-being. METHODS Starting with a baseline survey conducted between July and August 2021, we tracked 1254 postpartum Japanese women who initially reported minimal depressive symptoms (i.e., Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale < 9) and MIBD (i.e., Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale < 5), over a follow-up period of approximately 6 months. Baseline loneliness was evaluated with the UCLA Loneliness Scale Short-Form (UCLA-LS3-SF3). RESULTS Forty-nine percent of the sample reported the presence of baseline feelings of loneliness. After propensity score matching on sociodemographics and various pregnancy, childbirth, and COVID-19-related aspects, baseline loneliness was associated with increased risks of later depressive symptoms but not MIBD. Using restricted cubic spline logistic regression and considering loneliness as a continuous variable, we found a positive increasing quadratic relationship with depressive symptoms. As loneliness increased, so did the risk of later depressive symptoms. However, there was no significant association between loneliness and MIBD. These results were confirmed through a sensitivity analysis using inverse probability weighting to address attrition bias. CONCLUSION Feelings of postpartum loneliness are associated with future risks of depressive symptoms. The data suggests that addressing loneliness in postpartum women early is crucial to safeguarding their well-being and that of their infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Chen
- Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan.
| | | | - Sumiyo Okawa
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryo Okubo
- Department of Psychiatry, National Hospital Organization Obihiro Hospital, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Shin Nakagawa
- Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tabuchi
- Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
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Zheng Y, Panayiotou M, Currie D, Yang K, Bagnall C, Qualter P, Inchley J. The Role of School Connectedness and Friend Contact in Adolescent Loneliness, and Implications for Physical Health. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:851-860. [PMID: 36260256 PMCID: PMC11060972 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01449-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated how adolescents' loneliness relates to school connectedness, classmate support, teacher support, and offline and online communication with friends. We also examined the association between loneliness, physical health, and sleep. Data came from the Scottish Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC). The total sample was 2983 adolescents (F = 1479 [49.6%]) aged 14-17 years (M = 15.66, SD = 0.39) from 117 secondary schools in Scotland. Results showed that (1) higher teacher support, classmate support, and offline contact with friends predicted lower levels of loneliness, (2) online friendship engagement predicted higher levels of loneliness, and (3) poor health and sleep were positively associated with loneliness. The study offers new findings, highlighting the role played by classmates/peers and teachers in reducing loneliness. Supporting previous research, we also found associations between loneliness, poor sleep, and worse physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Zheng
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Margarita Panayiotou
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Dorothy Currie
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Keming Yang
- Department of Sociology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Charlotte Bagnall
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Pamela Qualter
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Joanna Inchley
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Daynes-Kearney R, Gallagher S. Social Identity and Online Support Groups: A Qualitative Study with Family Caregivers. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:479-490. [PMID: 37548949 PMCID: PMC11106133 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to explore whether a sense of collective or shared group identity was developed in one established online social support group for family caregivers and, if so, what did group identification mean for the group members and how was this cultivated in the group. METHODS Eighteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with members of a family caregiver online support group in Ireland. Inductive and deductive reflexive thematic analysis drawing on the social identity approach (SIA) generated four main themes and several related subthemes. RESULTS The first main theme generated was The group are a Tribe and the Tribe gets it, with subthemes: Invisibility as a common experience, my Tribe understands I am more than just a carer and Just being part of the Tribe can be enough. The second main theme generated was the Tribe is a lifeline and life-changing, with related subthemes: Our connection relieves experiences of loneliness and social isolation and Sharing knowledge, experience and support made me feel visible. The third and fourth main themes generated were The leadership of group moderators helped create the Tribe identity and Lessons that can be learnt. These findings are discussed in relation to the social identity approach, social isolation and loneliness. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that group identity can be cultivated through considered, active and balanced moderation, creating a safe, welcoming and supportive space where family caregivers are able to have fun and seek information, advice and emotional support, which helps relieve loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Daynes-Kearney
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Laboratory, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Stephen Gallagher
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Laboratory, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland
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Fu Y, Wang Y, Guo Y. Built environment and loneliness in later life: productive engagement as the pathway. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:900-909. [PMID: 38566487 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2329642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The built environment is increasingly recognized as being associated with late-life loneliness. However, the pathway remains understudied. This study investigated the mediating effects of productive engagement in relationships between the built environment and loneliness. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from 4,409 community-dwelling people aged 65 years and above in China. We employed the Chinese version of the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale to assess loneliness. The built environment comprises residential density, street connectivity, park-based and vegetation-based green space, land use mix, and the number of and distance to the nearest recreational, health, shopping and community services within 300-meter and 500-meter buffer areas. Structural equation modeling was used. RESULTS Only green space (parks) had a direct effect on loneliness. Residential density and green space (parks) had an indirect effect on loneliness through volunteering. The number of recreational services had an indirect effect on loneliness through recreational and sporting activities, although distance to the nearest recreational services did not. All the significant results were only found within 300-meter rather than 500-meter buffers. CONCLUSIONS Our findings have implications for environmental gerontology theory and practice. Providing more green space and recreational services can significantly improve older adults' helping behavior, social activities and sporting activities, which can further reduce older adults' loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Fu
- School of Sociology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqi Wang
- School of Land Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, China
- Map Platform Department, Tencent Technology (Beijig) Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Yingqi Guo
- Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Smart Society Lab., Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Akcaoglu Z, Vaessen T, Velthorst E, Lafit G, Achterhof R, Nelson B, McGorry P, Schirmbeck F, Morgan C, Hartmann J, van der Gaag M, de Haan L, Valmaggia L, McGuire P, Kempton M, Steinhart H, Klippel A, Viechtbauer W, Batink T, van Winkel R, van Amelsvoort T, Marcelis M, van Aubel E, Reininghaus U, Myin-Germeys I. The temporal association between social isolation, distress, and psychotic experiences in individuals at clinical high-risk for psychosis. Psychol Med 2024; 54:1684-1692. [PMID: 38179659 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723003598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychotic experiences (PEs) and social isolation (SI) seem related during early stages of psychosis, but the temporal dynamics between the two are not clear. Literature so far suggests a self-perpetuating cycle wherein momentary increases in PEs lead to social withdrawal, which, subsequently, triggers PEs at a next point in time, especially when SI is associated with increased distress. The current study investigated the daily-life temporal associations between SI and PEs, as well as the role of SI-related and general affective distress in individuals at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis. METHODS We used experience sampling methodology in a sample of 137 CHR participants. We analyzed the association between SI, PEs, and distress using time-lagged linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS SI did not predict next-moment fluctuations in PEs, or vice versa. Furthermore, although SI-related distress was not predictive of subsequent PEs, general affective distress during SI was a robust predictor of next-moment PEs. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that SI and PEs are not directly related on a moment-to-moment level, but a negative emotional state when alone does contribute to the risk of PEs. These findings highlight the role of affective wellbeing during early-stage psychosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Akcaoglu
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas Vaessen
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Psychology, Health & Technology, Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Velthorst
- Department of Research, Community Mental Health Service GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord, Heerhugowaard, The Netherlands
| | - Ginette Lafit
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Research Group of Quantitative Psychology and Individual Differences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robin Achterhof
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Barnaby Nelson
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patrick McGorry
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Frederike Schirmbeck
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
- Arkin, Institute for Mental Health, Amsterdam, North Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Craig Morgan
- ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health and Social Epidemiology Research Group, King's College London, London, London, UK
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jessica Hartmann
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Mark van der Gaag
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, North Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychosis Research, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, South Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Department of Early Psychosis, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, North Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Lucia Valmaggia
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Philip McGuire
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Matthew Kempton
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's Health Partners, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Henrietta Steinhart
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelie Klippel
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Lifespan Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang Viechtbauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Batink
- Department of Lifespan Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud van Winkel
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Clinical Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thérèse van Amelsvoort
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Machteld Marcelis
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Mental Health Care Eindhoven (GGzE), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, https://www.ggze.nl/
| | - Evelyne van Aubel
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ulrich Reininghaus
- ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health and Social Epidemiology Research Group, King's College London, London, London, UK
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Inez Myin-Germeys
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry Research Group, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Alacreu-Crespo A, Sebti E, Moret RM, Courtet P. From Social Stress and Isolation to Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation in Suicidal Behavior. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2024; 26:312-322. [PMID: 38717659 PMCID: PMC11147891 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-024-01503-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this narrative review we wanted to describe the relationship of autonomic nervous system activity with social environment and suicidal spectrum behaviors. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with suicidal ideation/suicide attempt have higher sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and lower parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity in resting conditions and during acute stress tasks compared with patients without suicidal ideation/suicide attempt. Death by suicide and violent suicide attempt also are related to SNS hyperactivation. Similarly, a SNS/PNS imbalance has been observed in people with childhood trauma, stressful life events or feelings of loneliness and isolation. Social support seems to increase PNS control and resilience. Due to the importance of the social context and stressful life events in suicidal behavior, SNS/PNS imbalance could act as a mediator in this relationship and be a source of relevant biomarkers. Childhood trauma and stressful life events may impair the autonomic nervous system response in suicidal patients. Loneliness, isolation and social support may act as moderators in acute stress situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Alacreu-Crespo
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, C/Atarazana 4, Aragon, Teruel, 44003, Spain.
- FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France.
| | - Emma Sebti
- IGF, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Rosa María Moret
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, C/Atarazana 4, Aragon, Teruel, 44003, Spain
| | - Philippe Courtet
- FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France
- IGF, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Hong JH, Nakamura JS, Sahakari SS, Chopik WJ, Shiba K, VanderWeele TJ, Kim ES. The silent epidemic of loneliness: identifying the antecedents of loneliness using a lagged exposure-wide approach. Psychol Med 2024; 54:1519-1532. [PMID: 38497115 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large and accumulating body of evidence shows that loneliness is detrimental for various health and well-being outcomes. However, less is known about potentially modifiable factors that lead to decreased loneliness. METHODS We used data from the Health and Retirement Study to prospectively evaluate a wide array of candidate predictors of subsequent loneliness. Importantly, we examined if changes in 69 physical-, behavioral-, and psychosocial-health factors (from t0;2006/2008 to t1;2010/2012) were associated with subsequent loneliness 4 years later (t2;2014/2016). RESULTS Adjusting for a large range of covariates, changes in certain health behaviors (e.g. increased physical activity), physical health factors (e.g. fewer functioning limitations), psychological factors (e.g. increased purpose in life, decreased depression), and social factors (e.g. greater number of close friends) were associated with less subsequent loneliness. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that subjective ratings of physical and psychological health and perceived social environment (e.g. chronic pain, self-rated health, purpose in life, anxiety, neighborhood cohesion) are more strongly associated with subsequent loneliness. Yet, objective ratings (e.g. specific chronic health conditions, living status) show less evidence of associations with subsequent loneliness. The current study identified potentially modifiable predictors of subsequent loneliness that may be important targets for interventions aimed at reducing loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna H Hong
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Julia S Nakamura
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sakshi S Sahakari
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - William J Chopik
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Koichiro Shiba
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tyler J VanderWeele
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric S Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Burns A, Leavey G, Lawlor B, Golden J, Reilly D, O’Sullivan R. Attributions of Loneliness-Life Story Interviews with Older Mental Health Service Users. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1133. [PMID: 38891208 PMCID: PMC11171849 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence on the prevalence and impact of loneliness, particularly among older people. However, much less is known about the personal origins of loneliness and how it persists, or not, over an individual's life course. This study aimed to increase understanding of the personal experiences of loneliness among older adults across the life course. Central to this study was giving voice to the participants and allowing them to define loneliness, what it meant to them, and how it affected them throughout their lives. This qualitative study employed 18 life story interviews with older adults attending a mental health service. We explored their personal experiences of loneliness and the situations and factors associated with loneliness across the life course. We identified three distinct typologies of loneliness: those who experienced (1) chronic loneliness since childhood, (2) chronic loneliness after a life-changing event in midlife, and (3) loneliness which remained situational/transitional, never becoming chronic. This study found the seeds of chronic life course loneliness are often determined in childhood. Early detection and intervention may prevent situational loneliness from becoming chronic. More research is needed from a life course approach to help understand and address the causes and consequences of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Burns
- Institute of Public Health, D08 NH90 Dublin, Ireland
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health & Wellbeing, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Gerard Leavey
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health & Wellbeing, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Brian Lawlor
- Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jeannette Golden
- Martha Whiteway Day Hospital, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St. James’s Hospital, D08 KC95 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dermot Reilly
- Martha Whiteway Day Hospital, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St. James’s Hospital, D08 KC95 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roger O’Sullivan
- Institute of Public Health, D08 NH90 Dublin, Ireland
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health & Wellbeing, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
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Oken BS, Kaplan J, Klee D, Gallegos AM. Contributions of loneliness to cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults are independent of other risk factors and Alzheimer's pathology: a narrative review. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1380002. [PMID: 38873650 PMCID: PMC11169707 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1380002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Loneliness significantly contributes to cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. Loneliness is a distressing feeling resulting from a perceived lack of social connection (i.e., a discrepancy between desired and actual social relationships), while social isolation is a related term that can be defined by number and type of social relationships. Importantly, loneliness is distinct from social isolation in that it is associated with a distressing self-perception. The primary focus of this narrative review is the impact of chronic loneliness on cognitive impairment and dementia among older adults. Loneliness has a significant association with many factors that are related to worse cognition, and therefore we include discussion on health, mental health, as well as the physiological effects of loneliness, neuropathology, and potential treatments. Loneliness has been shown to be related to development of dementia with a hazard ratio (HR) risk comparable to having a single APOE4 gene. The relationship of dementia to loneliness appears to be at least partially independent of other known dementia risk factors that are possibly associated with loneliness, such as depression, educational status, social isolation, and physical activity. Episodic memory is not consistently impacted by loneliness, which would be more typically impaired if the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia was due to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. In addition, the several longitudinal studies that included neuropathology showed no evidence for a relationship between loneliness and AD neuropathology. Loneliness may decrease resilience, or produce greater cognitive change associated with the same level of AD neuropathology. Intervention strategies to decrease loneliness in older adults have been developed but need to consider key treatment targets beyond social isolation. Loneliness needs to be assessed in all studies of cognitive decline in elders, since it significantly contributes to the variance of cognitive function. It will be useful to better define the underlying mechanism of loneliness effects on cognition to determine if it is similar to other psychological factors related to excessive stress reactivity, such as neuroticism or even depression, which are also associated with cognitive decline. It is important from a health perspective to develop better strategies to decrease loneliness in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry S. Oken
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Josh Kaplan
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Daniel Klee
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Autumn M. Gallegos
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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Sease TB, Sandoz EK, Yoke L, Swets JA, Cox CR. Loneliness and Relationship Well-Being: Investigating the Mediating Roles of Relationship Awareness and Distraction among Romantic Partners. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:439. [PMID: 38920770 PMCID: PMC11200782 DOI: 10.3390/bs14060439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Loneliness arises when there is a discrepancy between one's desired and actual social connection with others. Studies examining the effects of loneliness in romantic relationships show that people who are lonely are less satisfied and committed to their romantic relationships. The present study explored the association between loneliness and romantic relationship well-being. Using a cross-sectional design, loneliness was correlated with relationship commitment, trust, and conflict. Relationship awareness, but not relationship distraction, statistically mediated the association between loneliness, relationship conflict, and relationship trust. The indirect effect of loneliness on relationship well-being was only present in people reporting low and medium levels of psychological inflexibility. Implications are discussed for acceptance- and mindfulness-based interventions for persons in romantic relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B. Sease
- Institute of Behavioral Research, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA;
| | - Emily K. Sandoz
- Psychology Department, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, LA 70504, USA;
| | - Leo Yoke
- San Fransico Center for Compassion Focused Therapies, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA;
| | - Julie A. Swets
- Eastern Washington University at Bellevue College, Bellevue, WA 98007, USA;
| | - Cathy R. Cox
- Institute of Behavioral Research, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA;
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Ho M, Schermer JA. Childhood Neglect and Loneliness: The Unique Roles of Parental Figure and Child Sex. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:442. [PMID: 38920774 PMCID: PMC11200426 DOI: 10.3390/bs14060442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a well-supported link between experiences of childhood neglect and levels of loneliness in adulthood, with emotional neglect from caregivers being predictive of loneliness. However, current research has yet to explore additional, sex-linked factors that influence this relationship. This study investigates the impact of different neglect types on loneliness, with a focus on the parental figure involved and the child's sex. It was hypothesized that men who experienced emotional neglect from their fathers would score higher in loneliness compared to other parent-child combinations. The findings showed no significant differences in father-son relationships within the context of emotional neglect. However, there was a significant difference in father-son relationships in the context of supervision neglect and loneliness outcomes, relative to all other parent combinations. Consistent with existing research, emotional neglect emerged as the strongest predictor of loneliness. Additionally, sex differences were observed, with women experiencing greater levels of loneliness stemming from neglect compared to men. These findings help address the knowledge gap present in childhood neglect research, with the goal of understanding the long-term consequences of adverse childhood experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Ho
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada;
| | - Julie Aitken Schermer
- Department of Psychology and Management and Organizational Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
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