Personality determinants of the experience of loneliness in adolescents in the digital world

Context and relevance. Adolescence is a sensitive period for identity formation, with recognition and acceptance from reference groups serving as a significant resource for development. Digitalization transforms the structure of communication, which may reinforce feelings of isolation even when contacts are externally abundant. The theoretical framework is based on the cognitive-behavioral model of problematic Internet use and models of personality vulnerability. Objective. To systematize data from international research on personality determinants of loneliness in adolescents in the digital environment, identify stable predictors, and compare the identified patterns with the results of similar domestic studies. Hypothesis. The digital environment affects the experience of loneliness ambivalently, with personality traits mediating the relationship between digital behavior and subjective isolation. Methods and materials. Conducting a systematic review of contemporary international research (2020—2026) examining personality-based predictors of adolescent loneliness in digital environments, complemented by a theoretical analysis of key frameworks and promising directions in comparable Russian studies. Results. The study identified and analyzed seven key research streams in contemporary international literature examining personality determinants of adolescent loneliness in digital environments. A comparative analysis of key findings with results from analogous Russian studies confirmed the hypothesis: the digital environment exerts an ambivalent influence on the experience of loneliness, with personality traits acting as a mediator between digital behaviors and feelings of loneliness. Methodological and methodical frameworks embedded in existing Russian questionnaires — assessing the experience of loneliness, engagement in cybersocialization, and problematic internet use — are proposed as promising foundations for advancing domestic research. This approach would ensure coverage of all key directions addressed in relevant international studies. Conclusions. The experience of loneliness in the digital environment is mediated by adolescents' personality characteristics, as confirmed by both international and Russian data. The results have implications for psychological practice: when assessing loneliness, it is important to consider personality risk factors. Preventive and corrective programs should include components aimed at developing self-esteem, social skills, and reflective abilities.

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