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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety

Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety

Published on: November 11, 2022

Perceived social isolation and cognition.

John T Cacioppo¹, Louise C Hawkley

¹Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience, University of Chicago, 5848 S. University Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. jcaciopp@uchicago.edu

Trends in Cognitive Sciences

|September 4, 2009

Summary

Loneliness negatively impacts cognitive function and executive performance in humans. This social isolation increases risks for cognitive decline and general morbidity.

Area of Science:

Psychology
Neuroscience
Social Sciences

Background:

Social isolation significantly affects human well-being and cognitive health.
Perceived social isolation, or loneliness, is a recognized risk factor for adverse health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the multifaceted cognitive and emotional consequences of perceived social isolation in humans.
To elucidate the mechanisms linking loneliness to cognitive decline and broader morbidity.

Main Methods:

Review of existing research on social isolation and cognitive function.
Analysis of psychological and cognitive impacts of loneliness.

Main Results:

Loneliness is associated with poorer cognitive performance and accelerated cognitive decline.

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It exacerbates negative cognition, increases sensitivity to social threats, and impairs executive functioning.

These cognitive changes influence emotions, decisions, and behaviors, contributing to health risks.

Conclusions:

Perceived social isolation has profound negative effects on human cognition and emotional regulation.
Loneliness is a significant factor in cognitive decline and overall morbidity.
Understanding these impacts is crucial for public health and interventions.