Opening up conversations, exploring early adolescent children’s perceptions of loneliness

Children’s loneliness is a recognised mental health concern that remains under-researched and often framed through adult-centric theories. This qualitative study explores how 10-year-old children attribute causes to loneliness. Using visual vignettes and focus group discussions within a social constructivist framework, the study creates a familiar and supportive environment for children to share their thoughts. Findings support previous research suggesting that children in early adolescence commonly attribute loneliness to external factors such as peer exclusion and unfamiliar environments, in contrast to their older peers, where internal attributions prevail. Thematic analysis identified patterns of rejection, isolation and emotional disconnection. Vignettes enabled participants to engage critically supporting ethical and empowering research practices. Results contribute to the refinement of developmental models of loneliness by incorporating children’s own perceptions and provide insights that may inform preventative mental health strategies and school-based interventions aimed at improving mental wellbeing in childhood and adolescence.