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Research Paper | Psychology | India | Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023
Loneliness, Social Support, Internet Addiction and Emotional Support amongst Young Adults
Abstract: This abstract provides an overview of the interplay between loneliness, social support, internet addiction, and emotional support among young adults. The rapid proliferation of internet usage and the increasing prevalence of loneliness among this demographic have raised concerns about the potential impact on their mental health and overall well-being. This review aims to consolidate the existing literature on these interconnected factors to shed light on their complex relationships and implications. Loneliness is a subjective experience of social isolation or the perception of lacking satisfying social connections. Young adulthood is a critical phase where individuals transition from adolescence to adulthood, often facing various life stressors that can contribute to feelings of loneliness. In recent years, the excessive use of the internet, particularly social media platforms, has become a prevalent aspect of young adults? lives. However, studies have suggested that prolonged and excessive internet use may contribute to increased loneliness, as it can hinder the development and maintenance of meaningful face-to-face relationships. Social support is a crucial protective factor against loneliness and can be categorized into emotional, informational, and instrumental support. Young adults with access to strong social support networks are more likely to experience lower levels of loneliness. The internet, through social media platforms and online communities, has the potential to provide alternative sources of social support. However, the quality and effectiveness of such support may vary, as virtual interactions may lack the depth and intimacy of in-person relationships. Internet addiction, characterized by excessive and uncontrollable internet use, has been identified as a potential consequence of both loneliness and inadequate social support. Individuals who are lonely or lack sufficient social support may turn to the internet as a coping mechanism or as a means to fulfill their social needs. Paradoxically, excessive internet use can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and further isolate individuals from real-life social connections, perpetuating a vicious cycle. Emotional support, a subset of social support, plays a critical role in mitigating loneliness and promoting psychological well-being. The presence of emotional support, whether obtained through face-to-face interactions or online sources, has been associated with reduced loneliness and improved mental health outcomes among young adults. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the interrelationships between loneliness, social support, internet addiction, and emotional support among young adults. By understanding these dynamics, researchers, mental health professionals, and policymakers can develop targeted interventions and strategies to enhance social support systems, promote healthy internet use, and provide effective emotional support for young adults grappling with loneliness and its associated consequences.
Keywords: Loneliness, Social support, Internet addiction, Emotional support, Young adults, Social isolation, Social connections, Internet use, Social media, Face-to-face relationships, Virtual interactions, Coping mechanisms, Psychological well ? being, Mental health, Interventions, Strategies, Social support systems
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023,
Pages: 328 - 334