What is the UCLA Loneliness Scale?

The UCLA Loneliness Scale is a 20-item self-report questionnaire designed to measure one's subjective feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Who developed the UCLA Loneliness Scale and when?

Developed by Daniel Russell, Letitia A. Peplau, and Carolyn E. Cutrona in 1980, with Version 3 published in 1996.

What type of assessment is the UCLA Loneliness Scale?

It is a self-report questionnaire that measures the frequency and intensity of loneliness experiences.

What does the UCLA Loneliness Scale assess?

• Emotional loneliness (absence of close emotional attachment)
• Social loneliness (absence of meaningful social network)
• Subjective feelings of isolation and disconnectedness
• Quality of social relationships
• Satisfaction with social connections

How many items and what format?

20 items rated on a 4-point scale (1-4) assessing how often each statement applies to the respondent.

How is the UCLA Loneliness Scale scored?

Total score ranges from 20-80. Higher scores indicate greater loneliness. Reverse-scored items are adjusted in scoring.

Who can use the UCLA Loneliness Scale?

Adults (18+) in research, clinical, and community settings.

What are the strengths of the UCLA Loneliness Scale?

Excellent psychometric properties, widely used and validated, comprehensive assessment of loneliness construct.

What are the limitations of the UCLA Loneliness Scale?

May not capture cultural differences in loneliness expression, requires reading ability.