Social Beings in Organizations: The Impact of Distinct Well-being Dimensions and Character Strengths on Workplace Loneliness

Abstract Workplace loneliness has emerged as a salient challenge in post-pandemic organizations, yet understanding its psychological foundations through the lens of applied positive psychology remains limited. Drawing on Seligman’s PERMA model and the character strengths theory, this study investigated how distinct well-being dimensions and interpersonal strengths relate to workplace loneliness. We surveyed 522 Hungarian employees across sectors, assessing PERMA well-being dimensions, workplace loneliness, and interpersonal character strengths. Regression and structural equation modeling revealed that Positive relationships and Negative emotions were the strongest unique predictors of workplace loneliness. In contrast, Engagement, Meaning, and Accomplishment showed no significant associations when controlling for relational and affective dimensions. Among interpersonal character strengths, Teamwork emerged as the most relevant predictor of loneliness at work, operating indirectly through the Positive relationships dimension. These findings highlight the centrality of relational well-being and cooperation-related strengths in mitigating loneliness and provide targeted implications for strengths-based and relationship-focused interventions in organizational contexts. Future research should prioritize the cultivation of positive workplace relationships and interpersonal strengths to enhance employee well-being in post-pandemic work environments.