Relationship between Self-Actualization and Loneliness in Young Adults

Abstract

The present study is aimed to test the relationship between loneliness and self-actualization of young adults. Three different instruments of loneliness investigation for a total 8 scale were completed by a sample of young adults, based on a Moldovan university-student sample of 304 participants aged 20 to 25 years (m=22.59, SD=2.07). The integrated research of phenomenon of loneliness uses the benefits of one-dimensional scales as well as the benefits of the multidimensional scales with the reference to the type of the loneliness. To make an emphasis on the integrated approach of the loneliness in research it was used both, one-dimensional and multidimensional scales. One-dimensional scale UCLA correlates with self-actualization factors: time ration, self-regard, human values, spontaneity, sociability, nature of mankind, flexibility. Subscales of multidimensional Schmidt - Sermat Differential Loneliness Scale correlate with the following self-actualization factors: time ratio, self-regard, spontaneity, nature of mankind, sociability, human values, self-acceptance and human nature. All the scales of the Korchagina’s loneliness scale correlates with: time ratio, human nature, cognitive ratio, self-acceptance, self - regard. General indicators of loneliness (UCLA, Schmidt - Sermat Differential Loneliness Scale scale, Korchagina’s loneliness scale) are in a straight relation with the general self-actualization indicators. However, a weak self-actualization has a direct influence on the probability of the loneliness symptoms. The present research shows that loneliness in its different contexts of manifestation is in strong relationship with self-actualization factors. The present paper suggests developing and implementing a psychosocial intervention program with the aim of self-actualization growing in order to diminish loneliness in young adults.