Using different methodological approaches when exploring experiences of existential loneliness during adolescence

Background: Research shows that loneliness among adolescents is common. A deep form of loneliness, existential loneliness, has been shown to occur among adults in connection to transitions when thoughts about meaning emerge. Adolescents have thoughts about life and meaning, but do not always address them as existential. Thus, it can be difficult to recognise and understand existential loneliness among adolescents and to offer adequate support. Therefore, the aim of these studies was to explore existential loneliness during adolescence.
Methods: Individual narrative interviews with adolescents were combined with retrospective narratives written by college students. The interviews were analysed with qualitative content analysis, while the written narratives were analysed using a phenomenological approach.
Results: The results from the interviews showed that existential loneliness among adolescents was related to experiencing social exclusion and “in-betweenness”. To alleviate their suffering, the adolescents tried to avoid burdensome feelings and thoughts, and they chose between sharing or not sharing their inner lives with someone else. The college students reflected in retrospect on their experiences during adolescence and their written narratives brought new nuances and perspectives to light. The preliminary results show that existential loneliness during adolescence is painful but may lead to personal development and may help in gaining better understanding of other people’s experiences, both of which are perceived as helpful when entering adulthood and professional life.
Conclusion: By using different methodological approaches a deepened understanding of existential loneliness during adolescence was achieved.