Abstract

Loneliness is a distressing emotional state characterized by feelings of emptiness and isolation when social relationship needs are frustrated or unfulfilled, posing risks to both physical and mental well-being. This study aimed to examine the influence of self-control on loneliness among middle-aged and older adults, as well as the mediating effects of social exclusion and thwarted belongingness in the relationship between self-control and loneliness. A total of 694 middle-aged and older adults aged 40 to 71 years participated in an online survey, and a serial mediation analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. Results revealed significant direct and indirect effects of self-control on loneliness via social exclusion and thwarted belongingness. This indicates that those with poor self-control skills were more likely to experience social exclusion and thwarted belongingness and that frequent experiences of social exclusion and lack of sense of belongingness, in turn, tended to increase loneliness. In addition, the serial mediation influences of self-control on loneliness via social exclusion and thwarted belongingness were documented in the mediation model. These findings remained significant even after controlling for health status, demographic characteristics, and depression. Furthermore, subgroup analysis comparing middle-aged (40-50 years) and older adults (60 years and above) did not reveal any significant differences. This study underscored the importance of self-control in social relationships as a contributing factor to loneliness among middle-aged and older adults. It also highlighted the intervening roles of social exclusion and thwarted belongingness in this process. The discussion section addressed the importance of self-control in preventing and reducing loneliness among middle-aged and older adults.