A reliability generalization study of coefficient alpha for the UCLA loneliness scale

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychological Measurement

Background:

• Loneliness is a prevalent psychological construct linked to negative mental health outcomes.
• The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale is a widely used measure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the reliability generalization of the UCLA Loneliness Scale.
• To provide an aggregate estimate of the scale's reliability across different populations and time.
• To identify factors influencing the scale's reliability (coefficient alpha).

Main Methods:

• Reliability generalization analysis was employed.
• Data from 80 studies reporting alpha estimates of the UCLA Loneliness Scale were analyzed.
• Sampling and demographic characteristics were assessed for their association with coefficient alpha variability.

Main Results:

• The UCLA Loneliness Scale demonstrated consistent reliability across the analyzed studies.
• Variability in coefficient alpha was associated with specific sampling and demographic characteristics.
• An aggregate estimate of the scale's reliability was established.

Conclusions:

• The UCLA Loneliness Scale is a robust and reliable instrument for measuring loneliness.
• Understanding factors influencing reliability is crucial for accurate interpretation of loneliness scores.
• Implications for clinical practice and future research directions were discussed.