Loneliness is subjective feeling of being socially isolated from others that may be experienced across all ages. Experiencing loneliness in childhood can predict social skill deficits, sleep dysregulation, depression, suicidality, and substance use in young adults. One study found that loneliness was associated with increased cortisol levels, a hormone that is associated with stress. The Stress Dampening Hypothesis suggests that alcohol may be used by many to alleviate negative affect. These findings indicate that stress could be a potential mediator between loneliness and substance use problems. This study examines the direct and indirect relationships between childhood loneliness, stress, and alcohol-related problems among college students.
The study’s sample consisted of 310 college students who completed an online survey. The survey assessed perceived social isolation and dissatisfaction with quality of relationship before the age of 12. Students were also asked to report perceived stress levels during the past month, believed ability or inability to limit alcohol consumption when intended, and alcohol consumption during the past month. The young adult alcohol problems screening test (YAAPST) was used to assess alcohol-related problems. Data was analyzed using a bias corrected bootstrap technique and model indirect command.
Results of the data analysis showed that higher levels of loneliness as a child were indirectly associated with impaired control over alcohol (IC) through increased stress. Higher levels of loneliness as a child were also indirectly related to more alcohol use through increased stress. Lastly higher levels of loneliness as a child were indirectly correlated to more alcohol-related problems through more stress, and in turn, more IC.
Takeaway: Levels of loneliness during childhood may provide predictive value when assessing alcohol related problems associated with stress in college students.