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Interpretation of Interpersonal Interactions

The Influence of Loneliness

University of Notre Dame

Scott E. Maxwell

University of Notre Dame

John F. Santos

University of Notre Dame

This study explored the relationship between scores on the UCLA Loneliness Scale and perceptions and interpretations of interpersonal interactions. It compared 20 elderly females and 20 young females on the dimensions of loneliness, chronic loneliness, and negativeness of interpretation. No significant age differences were found, but a highly significant relationship was obtained among loneliness, chronic loneliness, and negative interpretations of interpersonal interactions. When the time elapsed since the occurrence of loneliness was taken into consideration, the correlation became even stronger. The relationship between loneliness scores and negative interpretations held true for interactions with a family member, neighbor, and authority figure. An inverse relationship was obtained between education and loneliness and between education and negativeness of interpretation. A developmental perspective of friendship and intimacy was proposed to explain severe or chronic loneliness.

Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, Vol. 11, No. 4, 445-456 (1985)
DOI: 10.1177/0146167285114010


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