Predictors of male loneliness across the lifespan: A longitudinal Australian study

Abstract

Background Despite growing recognition of loneliness as a global public health concern, research on its occurrence and precipitants among men across the lifespan remains limited and inconclusive. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the prevalence and predictors of loneliness among a large, representative data set of Australian adult men. Methods The study used longitudinal data from waves 2–21 of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, restricting the sample to men aged 18–80. Using two measures of loneliness, a single item measure and a multi-item measure, linear fixed effects regressions were estimated that account for unobserved time-invariant individual heterogeneity. Each loneliness measure was regressed on a set of selected explanatory variables over different parts of the life span. Results Across all ages, average reported loneliness scores are higher with the multi-item measure than with the single-item measure. Increased social isolation, romantic partnership dissolution, having a long-term disability, and having more conservative beliefs regarding gender roles are associated with greater loneliness. Frequent social connection, having a romantic partner, and high neighbourhood satisfaction are protective against loneliness. The findings also reveal several differences in the predictors of loneliness over the life course. Job security is especially important for younger men, whereas for older men volunteering and less conversative gender role attitudes are important factors that can decrease loneliness. Conclusions The results emphasise the need to consider age-specific factors and societal expectations in understanding and addressing loneliness amongst men. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of raising awareness about the impact of societal norms and expectations on men's mental health. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers to develop effective strategies and support systems to combat loneliness and promote well-being among men.