The Multiple Mediating Effects of Emotional Isolation and Loneliness on the Influence of Physical Isolation on Depression among Emerging Adults

Background: This study investigated the serial mediating effects of emotional isolation and loneliness on the influence of physical isolation on depression among emerging adults. Methods: Using raw data from the 2022 Seoul Isolated and Reclusive Youth Survey, a statistical analysis was conducted on a sample of 2,386 emerging adults aged 19-29 years, using Hayes’ PROCESS Macro (Model 6).Results: Empirical results indicated that physical isolation was significantly and positively associated with depression. Furthermore, emotional isolation and loneliness each significantly mediated the influence of physical isolation on depression demonstrating simple mediation effects. Most notably, the analysis confirmed a significant serial multiple mediating effect, indicating a sequential pathway in which physical isolation was associated with higher emotional isolation, which, in turn, was associated with greater loneliness and, ultimately, higher levels of depression.Conclusions: Based on these findings, this study suggests comprehensive interventions to mitigate depression in emerging adults. Policy and clinical efforts should focus on strengthening meaningful social support networks to alleviate emotional isolation rather than merely expanding superficial contacts. In addition, targeted psychological services are required to address subjective loneliness. Ultimately, a multilayered approach that addresses both structural connections and emotional well-being is essential to prevent psychological distress.