Social loneliness is the absence of a reference social group: friends, peers, community with which to share activities and belonging. It differs from emotional loneliness (which needs ONE intimate bond) in that this requires a SENSE OF BELONGING to a broader group.
Concept origin
Weiss RS. (1973). Loneliness: The experience of emotional and social isolation. MIT Press.
How it manifests
- ▸ Feeling of not having a belonging group
- ▸ Lack of activities shared with others
- ▸ Progressive isolation from social circles
Therapeutic approach
Intervention focuses on active social network building: volunteering, interest groups, clubs, associations, religious or sports communities. "Social prescribing" in primary care has shown efficacy in reducing social loneliness in adults.
Related concepts
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