The Relationship Between Social Avoidance and Loneliness: The Indirect Effects of Core Self-Evaluation, Depression, and Interpersonal Trust

Objective This study aimed to explore the mechanisms through which social avoidance influences loneliness. Methods Longitudinal data were collected using the Interpersonal Trust Scale, Depression Scale, Loneliness Questionnaire, Social Avoidance Scale, and Core Self-Evaluation Scale to conduct correlational analyses. Results Social avoidance directly predicted loneliness and also indirectly influenced it through dual or triple mediation paths involving interpersonal trust, core self-evaluation, and depression. Conclusion Loneliness is not only directly affected by social behavior but is also closely related to the depletion and imbalance of psychological resources caused by social avoidance— including core self-evaluation, interpersonal trust, and emotional regulation ability. Social avoidance reduces core self-evaluation, weakens interpersonal trust, and increases depressive emotions, forming a self-reinforcing vicious cycle that exacerbates loneliness. We refer to this mechanism as the Social Avoidance–Psychological Resource Imbalance Theory (SAPRI). This finding suggests that psychological practitioners should focus on reducing social avoidance, enhancing self-evaluation, rebuilding interpersonal trust, and regulating negative emotions to effectively alleviate loneliness and promote mental well-being.