Navigating Loneliness in a Technologically Mediated World
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Authors
Shrestha, Merina
Issue Date
2025-08-13
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
loneliness , FOMO , technology and modern world , digital era and loneliness , social isolation , social connectedness , individualism/collectivism , age and loneliness , loneliness stigma , AR/VR/AI , social robots , attachment style
Alternative Title
Abstract
This Capstone project explores the multifaceted relationship between technology and loneliness, examining its psychological, social, cultural, and ethical dimensions. The first chapter introduces the inherent dualism of technology as both a potential alleviator and exacerbator of loneliness, highlighting its significant health and societal impacts, and outlining foundational models for understanding this complex interplay. The second chapter’s literature review examines loneliness across different age groups and genders, considering the influence of stigma, self-esteem, fear of negative evaluation, role loss, and attachment styles. The chapter then examines cultural contexts, contrasting societal types and focusing on Canada’s immigrant and Indigenous experiences. It also analyzes technology’s dual capacity to connect and isolate, considering advancements like AR/VR, AI, and online support, while reviewing loneliness measurement methods. The final chapter discusses the ethics of using technology for loneliness (privacy, consent, bias, autonomy) via CPA guidelines, and proposes future research into diverse populations, ethical tech frameworks, and equitable interventions.
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Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess