A University of the Sunshine Coast study of young teenagers has identified a vicious cycle of loneliness linked to the fear of embarrassment or judgement by peers.
The study of more than 170 children aged 13 to 15 found that those staying under the radar socially to avoid judgement reported greater loneliness, as well as lower trust, connection and participation in friendships.
"It explored why some teens feel lonely even when surrounded by their peers, and identified the key pattern of social avoidance," said UniSC Lecturer in Psychology Helen Hall, a practising psychologist who led the research for her ongoing PhD.
"They withdraw from socialising to avoid being judged, then fail to learn skills around trust, joining in, and give-and-take, then feel lonely and avoid their peers even more.
"Unfortunately, some teens suffer because they have empathy and recognise other perspectives, which are wonderful skills that are decreasing among this age group."
She said it was somewhat surprising that teens who chased popularity or status among their peers reported less loneliness, despite other studies to the contrary.
"Previous research has shown that large friend networks or status goals do not necessarily lead to greater wellbeing or healthier social behaviour," said Ms Hall, acknowledging the 'mean girls' factor.
"However, in this case, they do appear to be protective factors against loneliness when they are channelled into mutually supportive, trusting relationships."
She said the overall findings reflected some key reasons for the global loneliness epidemic producing poorer psychological and social outcomes among adolescents.
"Parents and teachers need to help our teens find safe, low-pressure ways of participating and connecting with their peers," said Ms Hall, a mother of four.
