Fear of Negative Evaluation and Loneliness in Young Adults

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21352117

Prerana Singh and Shivani Arora (Amity Institute of Psychology & Allied Sciences, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh)

The university transition is a developmental period that is critical and at this stage, young adults (18-25 years) tend to feel more socially evaluated and lonely. This narrative review is a synthesis of theoretical and empirical literature on the correlation between fear of negative evaluation (FNE) and loneliness among university students. FNE, which is a central element of social anxiety, entails cognitive biases, emotional dysregulation, and avoidance behaviors that can impede social interaction during academic and peer-related situations. Loneliness is perceived as the difference between the desired and actual relationships with others and can be both emotional and social in nature. Evidence reviewed suggests a bidirectional relationship between FNE and loneliness. FNE can cause high levels, which can result in social withdrawal and decreased engagement, which makes a person more lonely, and chronic loneliness can further heighten fears of negative evaluation in the long run. Depression, anxiety, diminished well-being, and decreased academic engagement are some of the adverse effects of this cycle. The implications of the review for university mental health support are noted and future research is recommended to be based on longitudinal studies and combined interventions addressing both constructs to enhance the social adjustment and psychological well-being of students.