THE ROLE OF PSYCHODYNAMIC AND PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT IN LONELINESS.

Abstract

This review article explores the relationship between psychodynamic factors, personality organization, and loneliness. It focuses on extensive research into attachment styles, shame, pathological narcissism, and personality disorders. Insecure attachment styles, both anxious and avoidant, emerge as significant predictors of loneliness. Their effects are shown to be mediated by disconnection-rejection schemas and diminished emotional intelligence. The shame and pathological narcissism, especially narcissistic vulnerability, also correlate strongly with increased loneliness and decreased life satisfaction. Identity diffusion, a core concept in Kernberg's personality organization model, is closely linked to chronic, pervasive loneliness. Notably, individuals diagnosed with personality disorders report substantially higher levels of loneliness compared to the general population. The article also highlights a reciprocal relationship between loneliness and depression, particularly important among adolescents. Early relational experiences are emphasized as having a role in shaping social-emotional development and the experience of loneliness. Empathy was identified as a powerful factor against loneliness and its associated depressive symptoms. It serves as a mediator in the loneliness-depression relationship and as a crucial element in both clinical practice and community well-being. This holistic perspective deepens our understanding of human relationships in modern society and advises a holistic, empathetic approach to addressing loneliness and related mental health challenges.