Faculty Sponsor
Ryan Carpenter
Final Abstract for URS Program
Though much research indicates that loneliness may cause increases in stress, findings are not ubiquitous. In a literature review, only 64% of studies found significant associations between loneliness and stress. One possible explanation for this inconsistency is a non-linear association. Additionally, social support is shown to provide a buffer against stress. Understanding differences in which sources of social support create resilience against loneliness is critical in supporting students. This study examines 1) the shape and nature of the association between loneliness and stress, and 2) the impact of social support on this relationship. Data (n =153) were collected via online self-report survey during the fall 2023 semester at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. Multiple regression in Rstudio 4.2 was used to assess research hypotheses. The linear association of loneliness with stress (b = 1.831, p < .001) explained a larger percentage of variance (R2 = 0.283) than squared/cubed associations and was retained for analysis. This relationship no longer reached significance in moderation analyses. While social support from family was significantly associated with decreased stress, this relationship was less pronounced for those reporting more loneliness (b = 0.427, p = .008). This indicates the importance that support from family, rather than friends or significant others, has on stress during college. Family oriented therapies may be particularly helpful for those experiencing more loneliness. Future research should examine the impact of different living situations on stress, loneliness, and social support.
Presentation Type
Visual Presentation
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
April 2023