Exploring loneliness in the relationships between self, others, and the world of local college students

Objectives This study is a qualitative descriptive study that comprehensively explores the loneliness of local college students from the perspectives of self and self, self and others, and self and the world based on the conceptual structure of loneliness proven based on Korean adults. Through this study, we aim to identify the unique elements of loneliness that stand out in local college students, clarify abstract and subjective concepts, and establish the foundation for the strategic basis necessary to deal with and mediate it. Methods According to the research purpose, 16 participants who scored 41 points or higher on the UCLA Loneliness Scale among local university students from June 2024 to September 2024 were selected through a purposive sampling method, and data were collected through in-depth personal interviews. This is a qualitative descriptive study using the content analysis method. Results The results of the experience of loneliness of local college students were derived into three themes and seven sub-themes. First, the category of ‘emotional pain due to lack of connection in relationships’ was schematized as ‘isolation’ and ‘fear.’ Second, the category of ‘emotional distance in relationships’ was schematized as ‘relationships between self and others’ and ‘relationships between self and self.’ Third, the category of ‘helplessness due to lack of direction’ was schematized as ‘anger,’ ‘emptiness,’ and ‘ambiguity.’ The results of this study included elements of loneliness that were not highlighted in previous studies, such as isolation due to lack of social connection experienced by local college students, as well as expectations and group identity in relationships with oneself and others, and the desire to contribute in relationships with the world. Conclusions Based on the conceptual structure of loneliness, comprehensive intervention methods to address loneliness of local college students in the relationship between themselves, others, and the world are as follows: First, support for sharing more experiences among peer groups through systems such as student loneliness mediators and peer mentoring. Second, opportunities for local college students to re-recognize their own value should be actively utilized by providing programs utilizing various networks such as successful role models in the region. Third, local college students should be able to build a sense of accomplishment through a place where they can donate their talents and experiences so that they can satisfy their desire to contribute to the world and change their perception as people who can influence the world. Fourth, when students seek professional counseling services, the process should be intuitive and useful coping strategy services should be provided to enrich their coping repertoire. Fifth, strategies should be strengthened to transform students’ time of loneliness into reflection. This should help them experience a healthy change in their relationship with their alienated inner self, that is, themselves.