The relationship of Alexithymia with Loneliness and comparison of them in male and female students

Abstract

Background: The aim of current research was to investigate the relationship of alexithymia with loneliness and comparison of them in male and female students. Material and methods: A sample of 280 students (145girls and 135 boys) were selected through multistage cluster sampling method and then were assessed by the Torento Alexithymia Scale and the Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale. Collected data were analyzed by multiple regression, correlation methods and multivariation. Results: The results indicated that alexithymia and dimensions of it (difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings and externally oriented thinking) with loneliness have a significant correlation. Multiple regression analysis showed that three dimensions of alexithymia (difficulty identifying feeling, externally oriented thinking and difficulty describing feeling) can predict loneliness in the meaningful manner. Morevere, There was a significant discrepancy between male and female students in loneliness and alexithymia.