German Translation, Adaptation, and Validation of a Multidimensional Measure of Loneliness for Children and Adolescents (German LACA-R)

Abstract: Loneliness is a significant concern among children and adolescents, yet its multidimensional nature has not been widely assessed in German-speaking populations. This study aimed to translate, adapt, and validate a multidimensional measure of loneliness for children and adolescents. The German LACA-R assesses loneliness related to peers and parents of 9–15-year-olds. A sample of 737 participants (54% girls) completed the German LACA-R, along with measures of overall loneliness, Big Five traits, self-esteem, and physical and mental health. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the two-factor structure of the German LACA-R, reflecting distinct peer- and parent-related loneliness dimensions. Both dimensions showed strong internal consistency. Moreover, the German LACA-R demonstrated configural measurement invariance in comparison to the original Dutch scale. Convergent and discriminant validity of the German LACA-R were demonstrated through moderate to strong associations with personality traits, overall loneliness, and health measures. In bivariate correlation analyses, peer-related loneliness showed stronger associations with mental health and extraversion than parent-related loneliness, while parent-related loneliness was more closely related to conscientiousness. Beyond the Big Five, peer- and parent-related loneliness explained additional variance in mental and physical health. The German LACA-R offers a reliable and valid tool for assessing peer- and parent-related loneliness in youths.