Loneliness in Social Networking Sites Among Young Adults: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis

Young adults are prone to loneliness and its adverse effects due to the difficulty of transitioning to adulthood. In this context, social networking sites are a crucial platform at their disposal to find connections. However, loneliness in social networking sites lacks conceptual clarity. By using Rodgers's Evolutionary Model, this study was conducted using a systematic search of the literature to help mental health nurses understand the concept of loneliness in social networking sites for young adults. The analysis revealed three categories of attributes: Engagement-based; Consumption-based; and Emotion-based, and two groups of antecedents: Emotion-linked and Skill-linked, with multiple consequences of loneliness. The findings highlight the role of social networking sites as an emerging platform for the multifaceted manifestations of loneliness among the young generation. As mental healthcare professionals increasingly recognise the significance of social networking sites in the lives of young adults, this conceptual understanding will help in the development of interventions and policies based on interaction dynamics. By understanding these patterns, healthcare providers can better support young adults grappling with feelings of loneliness in social networking sites, ultimately promoting enhanced mental health and social connection in a digital world.