Data analyses revealed that a greater need to belong, reduced sense of belonging, and lower social support from a significant other were significant predictors of loneliness, regardless of cohort. These findings indicate that while the pandemic may have disrupted students’ ability to develop a sense of belonging, particularly for those starting university during or after the height of restrictions, targeting these factors could help reduce loneliness in students going forward.
Ouzia, J., Wong, K. K.-Y., & Dommett, E. J. (2023). COVID-19 and loneliness in higher education: A UK-based cohort comparison study. Higher Education Forum, 20, 1–21. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1390193.pdf
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