Association between participation in organized activity and loneliness among adolescents in Tromsø municipality - A cross sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Loneliness is a common subjective feeling. We might feel lonely, but still engage and interact in social groups, and we can be alone and live happily. Participation in organized activity might reduce mental health challenges through social mechanisms, with the opportunity of developing life skills and social relationships. To my knowledge, no previous studies have investigated the direct association between participation in organized activity and self-reported feelings of loneliness. Aim The main aim of this study is to investigate the association between participation in organized activity and self-reported feelings of loneliness among adolescents, aged 13-16 in Tromsø municipality. Method This is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design based on the Norwegian Ungdata survey conducted in 2018. Ungdata is a national survey conducted in each municipality. Binary logistic regression was performed to investigate the association between organized activity and reported feelings of loneliness. Results The results showed higher odds (Odds Ratio (OR) 1,23, 95% CI: 0,98-1,54) in the unadjusted model of reporting feeling lonely, having participated in organized activity compared to those who currently participated. Adjusting for co-variates, the association was attenuated and resulting in an OR of 1,06 (95% CI 0,78-1,43) of reporting feelings of loneliness having previously participated in organized activity, compared to the reference category. Conclusion There are no statistically significant associations between participation in organized activity and reported feelings of loneliness, among adolescents in Tromsø. Results implies that it is higher odds of feeling lonely previously participating in any organized activity. Further research should be considered, to find out and solve the root causes of why adolescents are quitting doing organized activity and invest in interventions that will act as preventive.