Last update:

   21-Apr-2024
 

Arch Hellen Med, 41(3), May-June 2024, 322-328

REVIEW

Loneliness and alexithymia in student population. Psychometric approaches

A. Lamprou, M. Mantzorou, D. Mastrogiannis, C. Tsiou
Master of Science in "Nursing in Community and Public Health Nursing", Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Attica, Greece

The transition from school to university life is associated with structural changes and alongside a stressful modern lifestyle as students experience abrupt biopsychosocial situations. Loneliness and alexithymia are two social factors that have an impact on university life, academic performance and mental health of students. Literature shows that loneliness and alexithymia are variables that are experienced subjectively and depend on the individual's personality. People who live in stressful environments or have a personality that is either introverted or anxious are more at risk of experiencing high levels of alexithymia and loneliness. The social variables that have been considered among others to contribute to the development of social isolation and alexithymic characteristics in students are parental separation, poor economic conditions and, recently, the pandemic. The scientific approach of loneliness and alexithymia is carried out through psychometric scales. Psychometric tools, in a society that is constantly "changing", are continuously updated contributing to the objective determination of human behaviors. In order to support and protect students from loneliness and alexithymia, the empowerment of students should always be at the center of attention of the University's psychosocial care teams.

Key words: Alexithymia, Loneliness, Psychometric scales, Students.


© Archives of Hellenic Medicine