Researchers Uncover the Formula for the Happiness of Singles 0 8

Life satisfaction among single individuals is linked to the fulfillment of their basic psychological needs. The type of attachment and the perception of loneliness as a conscious choice also play an important role. This is reported by Personal Relationships.

The researchers studied two groups: 445 adults (average age — 53 years) and 545 students (around 19 years old). During the survey, they assessed levels of autonomy (the feeling of control over one’s life), competence (confidence in achieving goals), and relatedness (the sense of support from others). Additionally, they analyzed the type of attachment and the reasons for loneliness.

The results confirmed that individuals who feel autonomy, competence, and social connection report greater life satisfaction and lower levels of depression. Meanwhile, anxious attachment style correlates with lower well-being. Those who perceive loneliness as a conscious choice for the sake of freedom feel better than those who view it as a forced condition.

It turns out that the quality of life for single individuals is determined not by the mere fact of lacking a partner, but by the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and the nature of their perception of their situation. Openness to casual romantic relationships does not significantly impact overall life satisfaction.