Dr. Masood Zangeneh from Humber College has shared a call for chapter contributors for an upcoming book with Springer Publishing, entitled: “Loneliness Among College and University Students.” This book seeks to investigate the complexities of loneliness among post-secondary students, exploring its impact on psychological well-being and social skills. Based on current scholarly research, it will offer a thorough examination and suggest practical solutions for educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals.
The Chapter Themes are:
The Prevalence of Loneliness in Higher Education:
Research indicates that loneliness is prevalent among college and university students. According to a study by Hysing et al. (2020), approximately one-third of students report feeling lonely, with this figure rising significantly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The abrupt shift to online learning and social distancing measures exacerbated feelings of isolation, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. The lingering effects of prolonged isolation continue to impact students’ social integration and overall mental health, regardless of whether they are now engaged in remote or in-person learning.
Psychological Impact of Loneliness:
Loneliness has profound psychological consequences. Studies by Cacioppo et al. (2015) and Lee et al. (2019) have demonstrated that chronic loneliness can lead to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. In the context of higher education, these psychological burdens can impair academic performance and reduce students’ motivation and engagement.
Social Skills and Loneliness:
The development of social skills is a crucial aspect of the higher education experience. However, loneliness can hinder this process. Research by Heinrich and Gullone (2006) suggests that lonely individuals often struggle with social interactions, leading to a vicious cycle where loneliness begets further isolation.
The Role of Technology:
While technology offers new avenues for connection, it also contributes to the complexity of loneliness. A study by Primack et al. (2017) found that excessive use of social media is associated with higher levels of perceived loneliness. This paradoxical relationship—wherein students are more connected yet feel more isolated—will be a focal point of this chapter.
Institutional Responses and Interventions:
Universities and colleges have a pivotal role in addressing student loneliness. This chapter will review various institutional strategies, such as peer mentoring programs, mental health services, and social engagement initiatives.
If you are interested, please email Dr. Masood Zangeneh at masood.zangeneh@humber.ca by February 7th, 2025 to confirm your intent to contribute. The first draft will be due August 31, 2025. Chapter Length: 4000 words (excluding references/illustrations)