The Role of Extraversion, Social Desirability and Self Compassion in Existential Loneliness

Abstract

Existential loneliness is known as the feeling of alienation and abandonment, where the individual feels as though they are not participating in life. Although this phenomenon is primarily recognized in the elderly or terminally ill, an increase in existential loneliness has been found among young adults. Research has shown that social desirability, extraversion, and self-compassion often coincide with existential loneliness. However, the focus is not often on young adults. The current study examined the effect of these factors on young adults experiencing existential loneliness through quantitative research. Participants (N=79) between the ages of 18 and 25 completed multiple questionnaires regarding the aforementioned factors. To determine the presence of existential loneliness, the Existential Loneliness Questionnaire by Mayers was used. Participants also completed the Self-Compassion Scale Short Form by Neff and the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale - Short Form C. To determine the level of extraversion, participants completed the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire - Extraversion Scale. All questionnaires were revised to align with the study. A Pearson correlation was applied to determine correlations between the variables. Subsequently, a multiple linear regression analysis was conducted. It was found that self-compassion, extraversion, and social desirability have a significant effect on existential loneliness. Self-compassion and extraversion were negatively correlated with existential loneliness, while a positive correlation was found between social desirability and existential loneliness. Furthermore, it was found that the three independent variables are significant predictors of existential loneliness. Further research is necessary to create possible interventions f