Factors Associated with Subjective Loneliness among Young People, Older Adults, and Women with Young Children in Russia

Abstract

This article examines the factors associated with subjective loneliness among young people, older adults, and women with young children in Russia. The study is based on an online survey conducted in 2023, which used a representative sample of Russians aged 20–74 (N=6557). The authors demonstrate that the level of subjective loneliness is statistically significantly higher than the sample average among young people and women with young children, particularly those with children under the age of three, and lower among 60–74 year olds. Logistic regression analysis reveals that factors associated with loneliness vary across the population groups. Among young people, significant factors include personality traits such as agreeableness and neuroticism, life dissatisfaction, and manifestations of depression, anxiety, and social dependence. Among older adults, a higher risk of subjective loneliness is associated with an absence of a partner, infrequent communication with friends and family, and residence in rural areas or urban-type settlements. Conversely, lower risks are associated with non-remote employment and regular physical activity. Among women with young children, subjective loneliness is primarily associated with a lack of social contacts outside the family, unemployment, emotional distress, and subjectively perceived restrictions related to family responsibilities. The authors conclude that the mechanisms underlying subjective loneliness are heterogeneous, and that social support measures and policies aimed at reducing the negative consequences of loneliness should consider the specific characteristics of different population groups.