Social- and Emotional Loneliness in a High IQ Sample: A Lonely Life from Adolescence into Adulthood

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of a high IQ (>130) on loneliness. Comparing the loneliness in a high IQ sample to a norm group, the current study aims to find out more about the presentation of loneliness in the high IQ population. Using retrospective reports, the occurrence of social- and emotional loneliness over time in will be explored. Introduction: Being different can be caused by many different factors. Independently of the factor, being different can be an unpleasant experience. A high IQ has been little researched as a cause of feeling different. The current study aims to explore the effect of a high IQ on loneliness. Methods: 101 participants with an IQ above 130 have filled in a questionnaire on loneliness. Reporting on both adolescence and adulthood to explore the presentation of loneliness over time and to compare the current sample to a regular IQ sample. Results: The high IQ sample was found to be more lonely than the general Dutch population. Both types of loneliness have been found to decrease over time. Further demographic and social factors influencing factors have been explored Discussion: Further research on the characteristics and consequences of a high IQ is needed to adapt the diagnostic procedure and treatment in a way that enables clinical professionals to help high IQ clients in a meaningful way.