Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | Loneliness Among Adolescents in Tunisia: Key Contributing Factors and Implications |
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| Contribution code | D3.040 |
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| Form of presentation | Poster |
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| Abstract |
INTRODUCTION : As a social species, humans depend on a safe and secure social environment to survive and thrive. However, loneliness, can heighten sensitivity to threats and amplify feelings of vulnerability. For adolescents, this experience is especially intense as they navigate identity formation, acceptance, and social pressures. The rise of digital communication and changing social norms has heightened challenges for adolescents, further compounded by the increased isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the prevalence of loneliness among Tunisian adolescents in the post-COVID era and identify the key contributing factors and their implications. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study among Tunisian adolescents aged between 12 to 18 years old. Data were collected using an online questionnaire spread throughout social media (Facebook), using the Google Forms® platform in September 2024. We evaluated the epidemiological and social characteristics of the participants, and we utilized the Dejong loneliness scale (PPS) to assess feelings of loneliness. RESULTS : Eighty-two adolescents participated in our study with a mean age of 16.02 ± 1.65 years and a sex ratio (M/F) 0.82. Among them, 86.5% lived in urban areas, 13.4% in rural areas, and 18.3% did not live with both parents. Most participants were in high school (72.3%), 23.1% in middle school, and 4.6% had dropped out. Regarding habits, 40% used tobacco, 7.7% consumed alcohol, and 16.9% used cannabis. Academically, 15.9% reported low grades, 23.2% had repeated a grade, and 27.7% had conflicts with teachers or school administration. Additionally, 21.5% had experienced bullying, 30.5% faced domestic violence, and 31.7% reported parental conflicts. The mean De Jong Loneliness Scale score was 6.74, with 16.9% experiencing severe loneliness. Social loneliness was significantly higher among participants in rural areas (p=0.009), those exposed to domestic violence (p=0.01), and those from non-intact families experienced higher levels of both social and emotional loneliness (p=0.01). Loneliness was also significantly associated with poor school performance (p=0.008), and cannabis use (p=0.014). CONCLUSION: This study underscores the significant impact of emotional and social loneliness on adolescents, highlighting the crucial role of satisfying social relationships for maintaining both mental and physical health. |