A PROPOSAL ON

LEVEL OF LONELINESS AMONG STUDENTS OF SELECTED SCHOOL,

BIRATNAGAR-1, MORANG

RESEARCH PROPOSAL REPORT SUBMITTED FOR PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF

THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN
NURSING IN PURBANCHAL UNIVERSITY

SUBMITTED TO

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

PURBANCHAL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES

GHOTGAUN, MORANG

SUBMITTED BY:

AASHMA REGMI

GRISHMA KARKI

BSC FOURTH YEAR (2076 B.S. / 7 BATCH)

1
 APPROVAL SHEET
The research report entitled” LEVEL OF LONELINESS AMONG STUDENTS OF
SELECTED SCHOOL, BIRATNAGAR-1, MORANG” is prepared and submitted by
Aashma Regmi and Grishma Karki in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of
Bachelor of Nursing has been examined and is recommended for acceptance and approval.

APPROVED BY

….………………………………
Researcher Advisor

….………………………………..
Chair research committee

.….………………………………
Institutional chief
Date:

2
 ABSTRACT
Background: Loneliness is defined as a hurtful subjective experience of lacking desired social
relationships. And is characterized by a discrepancy between actual and desired social
relationships. Many Research has shown that approximately one tenth of school-aged children
experience social isolation, peer rejection and loneliness commonly. A distinctive feature of
loneliness is that each person experiences it differently, and many factors, including genetics and
the environment, impact upon these individual experiences.

Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional study research design was carried out at azalea
secondary boarding school using census method sampling technique data was collected through
self-administered questionnaire in 1 day. The data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics
(example: frequency, percentage) and inferential statistics (chi square test) to show the
association.

Result: The result shows that out of 120 respondents,79.2% had low degree loneliness and
20.8% had moderate degree loneliness. The study revealed significant mean difference of level
of loneliness with socio demographic variables i.e. sex of the respondent (p value<0.05).

Conclusion: the result showed that majority of the respondent have low level of loneliness.

Key words: loneliness, level, school students, UCLA

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
First of all, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Purbanchal university school of
health sciences for providing me an opportunity to carry out the research study as the partial
fulfillment of Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

We would like to express our deep sense of gratitude and indebtedness to our Campus Director
Ma’am, Mrs. Kabita Adhikari and campus dean sir Sailendra Mani Pokhrel. we would like to
extend my heartful regards to research advisor Ma’am Mrs. Uma Pradhan for her continuous
supervision, expert guidance, valuable suggestions and encouragement throughout the research
study. We also own our sincere gratitude to respected ma’am Namu Koirala Research teacher for
providing us constant support at every phase of research study. we are also grateful towards our
respected sir Sudarshan Dhungana (Statistician), Lecturer, of purbanchal university school of
health science for providing guidance and valuable suggestion in the statistical analysis.

It gives us an immense pleasure to express our heartly gratitude to all our lecturers of bachelor
faculty of purbanchal university college for their guidance and valuable suggestions. With their
encouragement and continuous support, it would never have been very difficult for us to submit
this research proposal.

Our deep appreciation goes to library staffs of PUSHS for their respectable assistance, support
and cooperation for providing us important text and reference books throughout the study period.

We would like to express our deep appreciation for our friends, family members for their
encouragement and help directly and indirectly throughout this research.

Finally, we warm and heartfelt gratitude our each and everyone who have direct or indirect
contribution and cooperation for the completion of the proposal development.

Thanking you

Aashma Regmi

Grishma Karki

BSN 4TH year

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

Contents
APPROVAL SHEET...........................................................................................................................

ABSTRACT..........................................................................................................................................

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:.................................................................................................................

CHAPTER I.........................................................................................................................................

INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................9

1.1 Background of the study....................................................................................................................

1.2 Statement of the Problem................................................................................................................

1.3 Rationale of the study......................................................................................................................

1.4 Significance of the Study.................................................................................................................

1.5 Objectives of the study.....................................................................................................................

1.5.1 General Objective..........................................................................................................................

1.5.2 Specific Objectives.........................................................................................................................

1.6 Hypotheses/Research Question.......................................................................................................

1.7 Variables.......................................................................................................................

1.7.1 Independent Variable...................................................................................................................

1.7.2 Dependent Variable.......................................................................................................................

1.8 Conceptual framework....................................................................................................................

5
1.9 Operational Definition.....................................................................................................................

CHAPTER II......................................................................................................................................

LITERATURE REVIEW....................................................................................................14

2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................................

2.2 Related Literature Review:.............................................................................................................

2.3 Summary….......................................................................................................................................

CHAPTER III....................................................................................................................................

METHODOLOGY...............................................................................................................18

3.1 Research Design................................................................................................................................

3.2 Research setting................................................................................................................................

3.3 Study Population..............................................................................................................................

3.4 Sampling Technique.........................................................................................................................

3.5 Sample size........................................................................................................................................

3.6 Inclusion Criteria.............................................................................................................................

3.7 Exclusion Criteria............................................................................................................................

3.8 Research Instrument........................................................................................................................

3.9.1 Validity….......................................................................................................................................

3.9.2 Reliability.......................................................................................................................................

3.10 Data Collection Procedure.............................................................................................................

3.11 Ethical Consideration....................................................................................................................

3.12 Plan for data processing and Analysis.........................................................................................

3.13 Plan for dissemination...................................................................................................................

6
CHAPTER IV....................................................................................................................................

DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION................................................................23

CHAPTER V......................................................................................................................................

DISCUSSION.......................................................................................................................34

CHAPTER VI....................................................................................................................................

Summary, Conclusion, Limitation, Implications and Recommendation........................35

6.1 Summary:........................................................................................................................35

6.2 Conclusion:.....................................................................................................................35

6.3 Limitation of the study:.................................................................................................35

6.4 Implication:.....................................................................................................................35

6.5 Recommendation:...........................................................................................................35

6.6 Dissemination:..........................................................................................................................

REFERENCES:.................................................................................................................................

APPENDIX I: Informed consent form............................................................................................

APPENDIX II: Research instrument...............................................................................................

APPENDIX III: Work plan..............................................................................................................

APPENDIX IV: Budget Expenditure..............................................................................................

APPENDIX V: Official letter...........................................................................................................

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 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Distribution of sociodemographic characteristic.
Table 2: Association of loneliness with selected sociodemographic variables.

LIST OF FIGURES
Fig (I): conceptual framework

ABBREVIATIONS
PUSHS = Purbanchal University School of Health Sciences.
BSc nursing = Bachelor of Science in Nursing
df = degree of freedom
i.e. = That is
n = number of sample
% = percentage
>= greater than
<= less than
SPSS= statistical package for social science
UCLA= university of California los, angles
Fig= figure
SN= serial number

8
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study
The period in human growth and development that occurs after childhood and before
adulthood between 10 and 19 years of age is known as adolescence. During this periods
young people go through, many physiological and psychological changes, as well as their
ever-changing social world. 1It is a common human experience which affects most people at
some point in their lives. Excessive loneliness, however, can be painful and devastating. 2 3
Many Research has shown that approximately one tenth of school-aged children experience
social isolation, peer rejection and loneliness commonly. 4 5
This is especially concerning
because we know that loneliness can have severe consequences for physical and mental
health and well-being.6 7 Loneliness is defined as a hurtful subjective experience of lacking
desired social relationships. And is characterized by a discrepancy between actual and
desired social relationships.2 3Loneliness researchers emphasize the important distinction
between the experience of loneliness and of being alone.2 A distinctive feature of loneliness
is that each person experiences it differently, and many factors, including genetics and the
environment, impact upon these individual experiences.8
A cross sectional study was done in Nepal among older Newar adults on co-relates on
loneliness among older adults. out of 195 older Newar adults living in Kathmandu city two
thirds of Newar elderly i.e. 130 experiences loneliness. Data were collected using UCLA
loneliness scale.9 Feelings of loneliness are common among school-aged children. A nationally
representative study showed that nearly 60% of Finnish adolescents from grades 5, 7 and 9
experience loneliness occasionally, and for one tenth, those feelings are common. 10 Loneliness has
been associated with objective social isolation, depression, introversion or poor social skills.
It is a unique condition in which an individual perceives himself or herself to be socially
isolated even when among other people.11
Loneliness differs from being alone and is always a negative emotional response to
perceived social isolation.12 Loneliness is a multidimensional phenomenon; one close friend
may be enough for one individual to avoid feelings of loneliness, whereas a different person
may feel lonely despite interacting with numerous friends and a wide social network. 13

9
 Feelings of loneliness are common among school-aged children, especially during
adolescence, when developmental changes in companionship, individualization, identity
exploration, and cognitive and physical maturation increase the risk of perceived social
isolation and feelings of loneliness.14 Among adolescents, loneliness is associated with a
higher prevalence of psychosomatic symptoms, increased blood pressure, anxiety, and
depression .15
Loneliness in a such a way occurs when a person thinks their interpersonal relationships are
insufficient in some way.16 It is a subjective experience, accompanied by painful or negative
emotions and a perceived lack of connectedness to peers during adolescence .17
A recent conceptual model postulated that risk factors, such as age, interact with triggering
events, such as retirement, resulting in feelings of loneliness. Considering that some well-
established risk factors of loneliness, such as depression and chronic disease18, are increasing,
and that triggering events are part of life (e.g., the covid-19 pandemic), it is likely that these
risk factors would impact the prevalence of loneliness. Accordingly, loneliness is
increasingly recognized as an important health and social issue, with some health
professionals, including former US surgeon general Vivek Murthy, labelling it as an
epidemic19. A recent estimate suggests that one third of the population in industrialized
countries experience loneliness, and one in 12 people experiences loneliness at a problematic
level12

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Loneliness among students has become a pervasive and pressing issue in contemporary society.
Despite being surrounded by peers in educational settings, many children experience feelings of
isolation and social disconnectedness, which can have detrimental effects on their emotional,
psychological, and academic well-being. The causes of this loneliness can be multifaceted,
including factors such as social media usage, bullying, peer rejection, academic pressure, and
family dynamics. Addressing this problem is crucial as it can lead to a range of adverse
outcomes, including depression, anxiety, decreased academic performance, and long-term mental
health challenges. Effective interventions and support systems are needed to mitigate the impact
of loneliness on students and promote their overall well-being

10
1.3 Rationale of the study
Loneliness is an important aspect for psychological well-being. An individual who is lonely has
the risk of leading an unhealthy life both physically and mentally. Loneliness has been
associated with objective social isolation, depression, introversion, or poor social skills.

Loneliness is a psychological problem that has to be dealt with carefully. However, Loneliness is
often stigmatized, trivialized, or ignored. There is inadequate information related with loneliness.
Very few researches have been carried out relating to this very issue in Nepal. Researches have
been done to find out the level of loneliness among old age people but among teenage adolescent
has been ignored. There is a very little known factor that contributes to loneliness among
teenagers. Large numbers of teenagers are facing the problem of loneliness in Nepal but this
issue has not been given more attention. Similar topic done in other countries provides a
constructive result. This study may result in more rewarding encounters in regards to well-being
of lonely people and may be useful for other researchers to take it as a basis to conduct a
comprehensive research on same. Hence, researchers are interested to do research on this title.

1.4 Significance of the Study

This Research helps to assess the full scope of the impact of student loneliness, including its
effects on mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. This data can
inform educational policies and practices.
Research on student loneliness enables schools to identify and address social isolation,
leading to better mental health, higher engagement, and a more inclusive educational
environment.

1.5 Objectives of the study

1.5.1 General Objective
 To find out the loneliness among students in biratnagar-1, Morang.

1.5.2 Specific Objectives

 To find out the level of loneliness among students in biratnagar-1, Morang
 To find out which gender, male or female, has more tendency to be lonely.

11
  To find association of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables in biratnagar-
1, Morang.

1.6 Hypotheses/Research Question

What is the level of loneliness among students in selected school, biratnagar-1, Morang?

1.7 Variables
1.7.1 Independent Variable: age, sex, educational level, religion, ethcity, residence

1.7.2 Dependent Variable: level of Loneliness

1.8 Conceptual framework

It is conceptual foundations or logical guideline of a study that provides infrastructure or
guidelines.

It is the researcher ideas on how the research problem will have to be explored.

INDEPENDENT VARIABLES DEPENDENT VARIABLES OUTCOMES

LOW DEGREE
LONELINESS
 AGE
LONELINESS AMONG MODERATE DEGREE
 SEX
STUDENTS OF LONELINESS
 GRADE
 RELIGION
SELECTED SCHOOL OF
BIRATNAGAR MODERATELY HIGH
 FAMILY DEGREE
 ETHINICITY LONELINESS
LONELINESS
 RESIDENCE
HIGH DEGREE
LONELINESS

Fig I: conceptual framework

12
The figure reveals conceptual framework where demographic variables such as age, sex, grade,
religion, ethnicity, residence. That may affect loneliness among students where the outcomes of
loneliness are classified as: low degree loneliness, moderate degree loneliness, moderately high
degree loneliness, high degree loneliness.

1.9 Operational Definition

Loneliness = loneliness is a subjective emotional state characterized by a profound sense of
social isolation, disconnection, or the feeling of being alone, even when surrounded by
others. As assessed by UCLA (university of California, los angles) loneliness scale.

Students = Those studying in class 7,8 ,9 and 10

13
 CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
The literature review represents a review of related literature, which has been induce from both
research as well as non-research areas of report, articles, documents, journals and books. The
literature review identifies, evaluates and synthesizes the relevant literature within a particular
field of research. It illuminates how knowledge has evolved within the field, highlighting what
has already been done, what is generally accepted, what is emerging and what is the current state
of thinking on the topic. The purpose of a literature review is to gain an understanding of the
existing research and debates relevant to a particular topic or area of study, and to present that
knowledge in the form of a written report.

2.2 Related Literature Review:

1) A descriptive cross sectional study was done in 2018 among school aged children in
Finland on “loneliness and subjective health complaints among school aged children”
with the aim to explore prevalence of loneliness and subjective health complaints. A
representative sample of 5925 finnish child from grades 5,7,9 were taken. Loneliness
was assessed using single question on global loneliness. Result shows that prevalence
of loneliness was more common among girls than boys and tends to be lonely more
often in higher grade level.20

2) A cross sectional study was done on 10 April 2021 at the Sam Higgin bottom
University of Agriculture, Technology and Science and United College of
Engineering and Technology at Prayagraj UP with the title of "A Research on Level
of Loneliness Among Female and Male Students Studying Professional Courses". Out
of 80 respondents (40 males, 40 female) Results reveals that females pursuing
professional courses were more in number in the high loneliness category when
compared to professional courses pursuing males, which is significantly related to
loneliness. 21
3) A cross-sectional study was done on June 01 2023 at the federal state of
Brandenburg, Germany with the title of " prevalence of loneliness in childhood and
adolescence among 11 to 5 yrs. old German students. a study collected data from

14
 3819 children and adolescents in grades 5,7 and 9. university of California, loss
Angeles (UCLA) scale was used to assess loneliness. out of respondents 13.2% was
found lonely most of time and 3.6% always. loneliness was more prevalent among
girls and adolescent’s children of lower socioeconomic status. The finding indicates
that loneliness is widespread phenomenon among adolescents and among girls.22

4) A Cross-Sectional research was done on July /August 2005 in one of the ward of
Kathmandu city with the title of estimating the “Social Support and its Correlation
with Loneliness: A cross cultural of Nepalese Older Adults”. For this survey an
administratively and geographically well-defined, convenient ward was selected. This
ward had a total population of34,488 with total household 7,848 (CBS, 2003).
According to an unpublished source from the Central Bureau of Statistics, there were
1,287 households in total having at least one older adult of 60 years and above. The
researcher visited the targeted study area before the data collection; cooperation from
social workers and community leaders was solicited. For this survey Brahmin,
Chhetri, and Newer elderly were selected. These three caste/ethnicity older adults
were chosen because they made up the majority of castes/ethnicities (around 75%) in
this ward. Loneliness was measured using a three-item loneliness scale based on the
University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale. Sources of social
support were classified as spouse, children living with their elders, children living
apart, and friends/neighbors. Study findings indicate that the main social support
exchange for the elderly was with adult children living together, spouse, and
friends/neighbors. Results also show gender difference in social support. Significant
variables of loneliness were social support received from spouse, social support
provided to spouse, and children living together with both elderly parents. This
finding shows there is a high degree of cross-cultural invariance in the predictor
sources of social support on loneliness among two Nepalese castes/ethnicities older
adults. It was concluded that the Nepalese older adults were found to be actively
engaged in the exchange of social support with their families and friends.23
5) A cross sectional study was done on Finland in 2018 on “loneliness subjective health
complains and medicine use among finnish adolescent” the total population was

15
 20,444 aged 11-15yrs loneliness was measured by a single question on perceived
global loneliness. Result shows that out of all adolescent’s loneliness was high
especially in girls and 15 years old. Among all adolescent loneliness was associated
with higher risk of recurrent health complain and medicine use to treat corresponding
health issue, especially sleeping difficulties and nervousness.24
6) A survey was conducted on 2006 in Haridwar, Uttaranchal, Indian with the title of
“Personality Traits and Feeling of Loneliness in Unemployed Youths” to find the
effect of personality traits on the perception of perceived loneliness in unemployed
youths. A sample of 200 unemployed youths within the age range 26 to 32 years, are
selected from Haridwar districts. Dimensional Personality Inventory (DPI) was used
as tools to measure the relationship between personality trait and loneliness among
unemployed youth. Significance of differences between means on loneliness of
unemployed youths on the dimension of Enthusiasm, Assertiveness, Suspiciousness,
Depression, Emotional stability was established. The Non-enthusiastic, submissive,
suspicious, depressive personality and emotional unstable unemployed was scored
significantly higher on the measures of loneliness. Enthusiastic unemployed youths
feel less lonely than the non-enthusiastic unemployed youths.25
7) A cross sectional study was done in 2015 on loneliness and associated factors among
Brazilian adolescent on national adolescent school with the study to identify
associated factors to loneliness among Brazilian adolescents. The survey was done
among students attending in grades 6 to 9 of elementary school. 15.5% of Brazilian
students reported feeling lonely in last 12 months with higher frequency in female
i.e. 20.5% .there was a higher frequency of loneliness among adolescents who
reported having insomnia i.e.46.8% and bullying i.e. 24.3%.26
8) A cross- sectional study was done in 2016-2017 on four Caribbean country i.e.
Dominican Republic, Suriname, Jamaica, and Trinidad and to bagoll global school-
based students health survey with the goal to estimate the prevalence and correlates
of loneliness among adolescent’s school children. The data were collected from 9143
adolescents. Out of 9143 adolescents the prevalence of loneliness was 15.3% in 4
Caribbean countries. the prevalence of loneliness in Dominican Republic was 12.1%
whereas the prevalence of loneliness on Jamaica was 18.6%. in addition, having no

16
 close friends, anxiety induced sleep disturbance parental emotional neglect were
associated with loneliness as well as in boy’s daily exposure to smoking and in girl’s
low peer support frequent experiences of hunger were associated with loneliness
from Suriname.27
9) A cross sectional study was done in 2007 in Nepal on “correlates of loneliness
among older Newar adults in Nepal with the purpose to identity significant factors
for loneliness in older adults. The participants were aged 60 yrs. and above from
Newar caste (ethcity living in Kathmandu city, the total number of participants were
aged 60 years and above were 195.data were collected by face to face interview
using 3 item loneliness scale and prepared with translation from English into
Nepalese. Out of 195 respondents two thirds of Newar elderly i.e. 130 experience
loneliness. A statistically significant correlation was found between feeling of
loneliness and sex, age, household status, chronic health problem working status and
perceives economic satisfaction. Result showed that aged and perceives economic
satisfaction to be significant factors for loneliness.9
survey for
higher education in Norway. The main aim of the survey is to monitor students’ health,
wellbeing and psychosocial environment. The survey has been carried out three times
(2010, 2014 and 2018), and the two most recent waves (2014 and 2018) were used in the
present study.
survey for
higher education in Norway. The main aim of the survey is to monitor students’ health,
wellbeing and psychosocial environment. The survey has been carried out three times
(2010, 2014 and 2018), and the two most recent waves (2014 and 2018) were used in the
present study.
survey for
higher education in Norway. The main aim of the survey is to monitor students’ health,
wellbeing and psychosocial environment. The survey has been carried out three times
(2010, 2014 and 2018), and the two most recent waves (2014 and 2018) were used in the
present study.
survey for
higher education in Norway. The main aim of the survey is to monitor students’ health,
wellbeing and psychosocial environment. The survey has been carried out three times
(2010, 2014 and 2018), and the two most recent waves (2014 and 2018) were used in the
present study.
survey for
higher education in Norway. The main aim of the survey is to monitor students’ health,
wellbeing and psychosocial environment. The survey has been carried out three times
(2010, 2014 and 2018), and the two most recent waves (2014 and 2018) were used in the

17
present study
Data for the SHoT2014 study
were collected electronically using a web-based platform in the period from 24 February
2014 to 27 March 2014. An invitation email containing a link to an anonymous online
questionnaire was sent to 47,514 randomly selected students and stratified by study
institutions, faculties, and departments. The overall response rate was 28.5% and included
13,525 students
Data was drawn from two waves of a national student health survey from 2014 and 2018
for higher education in Norway (the SHoT-study). In 2018, all 162,512 fulltime students in
Norway
were invited to participate and 50,054 students (69.1% women) aged 18-35 years were
included
(response rate = 30.8%). Loneliness was measured by “The Three-Item Loneliness Scale” (T-
ILS) and
one item from the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25).
Results: Age showed a curvilinear association with loneliness, with the youngest and
oldest
students reporting the highest level of loneliness across all measures. Other significant
demographic determinants of loneliness were being female, single and living alone. There
was a
considerable increase in loneliness from 2014 (16.5%) to 2018 (23.6%, p < .001), and the
increase was
particularly strong for males, for whom the proportion of feeling “extremely” lonely had more
than
doubled.
Conclusion: The high rate of loneliness and the increasing trends indicate the need for preventive
interventions in the student population

2.3 Summary
A literature is the review of previously done articles and journals. Hence, this helps us to
come to the conclusion to the problem or solutions. It is done to conceptualize the nature and
scopes of the research study. The literature is obtained from different sites online.

After reviewing the literatures, it has been concluded that loneliness is a problem faced
world widely. Various literature reviews show that there was low knowledge regarding
loneliness among people. So, there is currently less literature exploring the loneliness among
teenagers.

18
 CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design
Descriptive Cross- sectional study design was used in this study.

3.2 Research setting

The research setting was Azalea secondary boarding school of biratnagar-1, Morang.

3.3 Study Population

All the selected students of Azalea secondary boarding school was considered as population
of the study.

3.4 Sampling Technique

Census method sampling was used as sampling technique.

3.5 Sample size

Using sample size formula (Cochran’s formula)

The prevalence measures (p) = 13.2%=0.13222

By using formula, n= z2pq/d2

Where,

no= sample size

p= prevalence

z=confident level

q= 1-p

19
l=acceptable margin of error

N=total population

Now,

Z= 1.96 at 95% significance level

P= 13.2%

Q=1-0.132=0.868

L=5%=0.05

Now,

n
0 = z2pq/l2

n
0 = (1.96)2*(13.2) *(0.868)/ (0.05)2

n = 176
0

Now, for finite population,

Number of students in class 7 = 34

Number of students in class 8 = 33

Number of students in class 9 = 27

Number of students in class 10 = 30

Now total number of students(N)= 124

n= no/ (1+((no-1))/N) where, N= 124

n=176/1+((176-1))/124)

n=176/1+1.41

20
n= 176/2.41

n=73

The sample size was 73

The sample size for finite population is less then 100.so, we have taken census method sampling
for research.

The sample size will be 124

3.6 Inclusion Criteria

Students of class 7, 8, 9,10 of azalea secondary boarding School who are available at the time of
data collection.

3.7 Exclusion Criteria

• Students who are not interested to participate in the study.
• People with severe physical or mental health problem.

3.8 Research Instrument

Section I: Question related to socio demographic questionnaire
Section II: Question related to loneliness
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) loneliness scale develop by Russell, D, Peplau, L.
A. & Ferguson, M. L will be used for the collection of the data. Questionnaire will be developed
on the basis of extensive literature review and consultation with experts.28
A 20-item scale designed to measure one’s subjective feelings of loneliness as well as
feelings of social isolation. Participants rate each item as either O (“I often feel this way”), S (“I
sometimes feel this way”), R (“I rarely feel this way”), N (“I never feel this way”).
The total score ranges from 20 to 80. Higher scores indicate higher loneliness. The most
commonly used categorization is the following:
20–34 denotes a low degree of loneliness,

21
35–49 a moderate degree of loneliness,
50–64 a moderately high degree of loneliness, and
65–80 a high degree of loneliness.

3.9.1 Validity
UCLA scale (university of California, los-Angeles) is a valid tool.

3.9.2 Reliability
The reliability based on standardized items indicates the reasonable value for Cronbach’s alpha
value (α=0.73)

3.10 Data Collection Procedure

• A formal permission was taken from department of research and development of PUSHS
to conduct research on selected topic.

• A formal permission was obtained from the school administration to conduct research by
submitting official letter from respondents after explaining the purpose and relevancy of
the study.

• Researcher herself was present during data collection.

• The purpose of the study was explained to the respondents in five minutes.

• Informed written consent was obtained from each respondents.

• Researcher will give instructions regarding questionnaire and provide 15 – 20 minutes to

fill the question and researcher herself was collect those questionnaires.

• Structured Questionnaire Technique was used.

• Information was collected through self-administered Questionnaire.

22
3.11 Ethical Consideration
• During the study all the ethical consideration was maintained and precautions was taken
to provide safety and right of all participants.
• Approval was taken from PUSHS.
• Permission for study was taken from school head of selected school of biratnagar.
• Informed written consent was taken from each respondents describing the objectives,
benefits and the risk of the study.
• The respondents were not being forced to participate. Participants was able to withdraw
from the study at any time without giving any reason during the study period.
• The privacy, confidentiality was maintained throughout the study.
• All collected information was used for research purpose only.

3.12 Plan for data processing and Analysis

• After collection of data, data was overview checked and verified and then edited, coded
and entered in SPSS version 16. The association between the variables was done through
chi square test. Descriptive. [mean, median and standard deviation] was used to analyze
data and finding of the data was presented by the use of the tables, bar diagram and pie
chart.

3.13 Plan for dissemination

• After the completion of research study, obtained research report was provided to

library and to provide this articles for reference purpose.

23
 CHAPTER IV
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

This chapter deals with the analysis and interpretation of data which was collected among 120
students of azalea secondary boarding school biratnagar, Morang. To assess the Level of
loneliness. In this chapter presents the findings on the level of loneliness among students along
with socio demographic variables. In order to facilitate the interpretation, the data were presented
in the tables. The obtained data were analyzed according to the objective of research by using
descriptive and inferential statistics and reported in term of frequency and percentage. Data were
analyzed by using statistical package for social science (SPSS, version 16).

Organization and Presentation of Data

All the obtain data were analyzed on the basis of the objective of the study. The finding of the
study is presented in following sections.

Age of respondent Frequency Percentage

12-14 73 60.8

24
 15-17 47 39.2

Total 120 100.0

SECTION-I

Frequency and percentage distribution of socio demographic characteristics (n= 120)

Table 1a: It shows that majority (60.8%) of respondent where 12-14 years of age group.

Gender of respondents Frequency Percentage

Male 60 50.0

Female 60 50.0

Total 120 100.0

Frequency and percentage distribution of socio demographic characteristics (n= 120)

Table 1b: It shows that 50% of respondent where male likewise 50% where female.

25
 Ethnicity of respondents frequency Percentage

Chhetri 45 37.5

Brahmin 43 35.8

Magar 1 .8

Tharu 11 9.2

Others 20 16.7

Total 120 100.0

Religion of respondents Frequency Percentage

Hindu 117 97.5

Buddhist 1 .8

Others 2 1.7

Total 120 100.0

Grade of respondents Frequency Percentage

7 Class 34 28.3

8 Class 32 26.7

9 Class 25 20.8

10 Class 29 24.2

Total 120 100.0

Frequency and percentage distribution of socio demographic characteristics (n= 120)

Table 1c: It shows that majority 37.5% of respondent where Chhetri and 97.5% of the
respondent where Hindu while 28.3% of the respondent where in 7 class.

Frequency and percentage distribution of socio demographic characteristics (n= 120)

26
 Family of respondents Frequency Percentage

Nuclear family 82 68.3

Joints/Extended family 38 31.7

Total 120 100.0

Table 1d: It shows that 68.3% of respondent belongs to nuclear family.

Frequency and percentage distribution of socio demographic characteristics (n= 120)

Residence of respondents Frequency Percentage

Hostel 7 5.8

Relatives House 13 10.8

Permanent house 89 74.2

Others 11 9.2

Total 120 100.0

Table 1e: It shows that majority 74.2% of the respondents where residing on permanent house.

SECTION-II

27
Level of loneliness among students of selected school of biratnagar-1, Morang(n=120)

level of loneliness Frequency Percentage

low degree loneliness 95 79.2

Moderate degree loneliness 25 20.8

Total 120 100.0

Table 2a: It shows that out of 120 respondents 79.2% have low degree of loneliness.

Table 2b: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Age of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness
Chi-square
value= 0.133
12-14 57(78.1%) 16(21.9%) 73(100.0%)
df= 1
15-17 38(80.9%) 9(19.1%) 47(100.0%)
p value= 0.715
Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)

(chi square test was used)

Table 2b: Among 12-14 age group 78.1% have low degree loneliness and 21.9% have moderate
degree loneliness similarly among 15-17 age group 79.2% have low degree loneliness and 20.8%
have moderate degree loneliness but there is no association between level of loneliness and age
of the respondents (p value>0.05).

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Table 2c: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Sex of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness

Male 52(86.7%) 8(13.3%) 60(100.0%) Chi-square

value= 4.093
Female 43(71.7%) 17(28.3%) 60(100.0%)
df= 1
Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)
p value= 0.043*

(chi square test was used)

(*= statistically significant)
Table 2c: Among male 86.7% have low degree loneliness and 13.3% have moderate degree
loneliness similarly among female 71.7% have low degree loneliness and 28.3% have moderate
degree loneliness which shows that female have moderate degree loneliness as compared to male
so, there is association between level of loneliness and sex of the respondent (p value<0.05)

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Table 2d: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Ethnicity of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness

Chhetri 37(82.2%) 8(17.8%) 45(100.0%)

Brahmin 31(72.1%) 12(27.9%) 43(100.0%)
Magar 1(100.0%) 0(.0%) 1(100.0%)
Chi-square
value= 7.285
Tharu 11(100.0%) 0(.0%) 11(100.0%)
df= 4
p value= 0.122
Others 15(75.0%) 5(25.0%) 20(100.0%)

Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)

(chi square test was used)

Table 2d: Among all the ethnicity of respondent Brahmin have maximum value i.e. moderate
degree of loneliness (27.9%) whereas magar have the minimum low degree of loneliness
(100.0%) but there is no association between level of loneliness and ethnicity of respondents (p
value > 0.05)

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Table 2e: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Religion of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness

Chi-square
Hindu 93(79.5%) 24(20.5%) 117(100.0%) value= 1.306
Buddhist 1(100.0%) 0(0.0%) 1(100.0%) df= 2
Others 1(50.0%) 1(50.0%) 2(100.0%) p value= 0.520

Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)

(chi square test was used)

Table 2e: Among Hindu 79.5% have low degree loneliness and 20.5% have moderate degree
loneliness, among Buddhist 100.0% have low degree loneliness where as other religion 50.0%
have low degree loneliness and 50.0% have moderate degree loneliness but there is no
association between level of loneliness and religion of respondent (p value> 0.05)

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 Grade of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate degree
loneliness loneliness

7 class 26(76.5%) 8(23.5%) 34(100.0%)

8 class 26(81.2%) 6(18.8%) 32(100.0%)

Chi-square
9 class 19(76.0%) 6(24.0%) 25(100.0%) value=
0.616
df= 3
10 class 24(82.8%) 5(17.2%) 29(100.0%)
p value=
0.893
Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%
)

Table 2f: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variable(n=120)
(chi square test was used)
Table 2f: Among the grade of respondent 7 class (23.5%) have maximum value i.e. moderate
degree loneliness whereas 9 class (76.0%) have minimum value i.e. low degree loneliness but
there is no association between level of loneliness and grade of the respondent (p value >0.05)

32
Table 2g: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Family of the Level of loneliness Total Statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness

Chi-square
Nuclear family 64(78.0%) 18(22.0%) 82(100.0%) value= 1.96
Joint/ extended 31(81.6%) 7(18.4%) 38(100.0%) df= 1
family
p value= 0.658
Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)

(chi square test was used)

Table 2g: Among nuclear family 78.0% have low degree loneliness and 22.0% have moderate
degree loneliness similarly among joint/extended family 81.6% have low degree loneliness and
18.4% have moderate degree loneliness but there is no association between level of loneliness
and family of respondent (p value>0.05).

33
Table 2h: Association of level of loneliness with selected socio demographic variables
(n=120)
Residence of the Level of loneliness Total statistics
respondent
low degree Moderate
loneliness degree
loneliness

Hostel 6(85.7%) 1(14.3%) 7(100.0%)

Chi-square
Relatives house 8(61.5%) 5(38.5%) 13(100.0%) value=
Permanent house 73(82.0%) 16(18.0%) 89(100.0%) 3.014
df= 3

Others 8(72.7%) 3(27.3%) 11(100.0%) p value=

0.389

Total 95(79.2%) 25(20.8%) 120(100.0%)

(chi square test was used)

Table 2h: Among respondent residing in permanent house (18.0%) have maximum value i.e.
moderate degree loneliness similarly respondent residing in relative house (61.5%) have
minimum value i.e. low degree loneliness but there is no association between level of loneliness
and residence of respondents (p value >0.05).

34
 CHAPTER V
DISCUSSION
The aim of the study was to assess the level of loneliness among students of azalea secondary
boarding school. This chapter deals with the discussion, based on the objectives on the study and
hypothesis.

A descriptive cross sectional study research design was carried out at azalea secondary boarding
school using census method sampling technique. A total of 120 sample were selected as a sample
for study. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaire from the participants.

The statistical analysis of the study shows that among 120 respondents,79.2% of the respondent
had low degree loneliness and 20.8% had moderate degree loneliness. The present study was
supported by the study done in Brandenburg, Germany by Raphael schutz and Ludwig bilz on
loneliness in childhood and adolescence among 11-15-year-old German student. The study
shows that 17.2% had moderate degree loneliness whereas only 82.8% had low degree
loneliness.

To associate the level of loneliness with demographic variables chi square test had been used in
this study it was found that there was significant association between level of loneliness and sex
of the respondent(p<0.05) in contrary with the study conducted by Pratima k, Mahananda on
level of loneliness among female and male student studying professional courses in Prayagraj
UP.

35
 CHAPTER VI
Summary, Conclusion, Limitation, Implications and Recommendation

6.1 Summary: This study on level of loneliness among students of azalea secondary boarding
school reveal that 79.2% of the respondent had low degree loneliness and 20.8% had moderate
degree loneliness. In comparisons to both male and female. Female have more loneliness by few
percentages.
6.2 Conclusion: This study on level of loneliness among students of azalea secondary boarding
school reveal that 79.2% of the respondent had low degree loneliness and 20.8% had moderate
degree loneliness. This suggest that people in our study may have strong social connection or
support system. It is important to note that this finding has positive implication, indicating a
lower degree of loneliness. The finding suggest that we can focus on maintaining and enhancing
this positive social dynamics schools could encourage more group activities, provide support for
positive friendships, or implement programs that strengthen students' emotional well-being.
Building on these positive aspects, we can contribute to creating a positive and inclusive school
environment.
6.3 Limitation of the study:
 This study was collected in one setting i.e. azalea secondary school.
 The data collection period was only 1 day.
 Study was limited to the respondent who were available at the time of data collection.
6.4 Implication:
 The finding of the study can provide basis for the future studies.
 The finding of the study can provide a foundation for researchers who want to conduct
research in related issue.
 The similar types of study can be conducted in large scale in different higher secondary
level schools.
 This study can help the educator’s parents and policy makers to continue nurturing
supportive environment that contribute to the overall well-being of students.

6.5 Recommendation:
 A comparative study can be conducted to assess level of loneliness among students of
different schools.
 A study can be conducted to find the correlation between social connection and
loneliness among students.
 Schools may conduct further group activities, provide support for positive friendships, or
implement programs that strengthen students' emotional well-being.

36
6.6 Dissemination:
A report is disseminated in the following area:
 Library
 Research advisors
 Other researchers

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chance in the second decade: summary. World Health Organization; 2014.
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4. Galanaki E. Are children able to distinguish among the concepts of alones,
loneliness, and solitude? Int J Behav Dev 2004; 28:435–443.
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parents. Scand J Psychol 2009; 50:211–219.
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review of consequences and mechanisms. Ann Behav Med 2010; 40:218–
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8. Bartels M, Cacioppo JT, Hudziak JJ, et al. Genetic and environmental
contributions to stability in loneliness throughout childhood. Am J Med
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9. Chalise HN, Saito T, Kai I. Correlates of loneliness among older Newar
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10. Simonsen N, Roos E, Suominen S, et al. Häsotrender bland elever I svensk- och
finspråkiga grundskolor 1994–2014. Samfundet Folkhälsan, 2016, pp. 17–19.
11. Cacioppo J.T., Cacioppo S. The growing problem of
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alone? J Psychol 2012; 146:7–22.
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developmental changes that increase the risk of perceived social isolation. J
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21. Pratima K, Mahananda M. A Research on Level of Loneliness Among
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Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz. 2023;66(7):794-802.
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40
 APPENDIX I: Informed consent form

Namaskar, we are Aashma regmi and Grishma karki of B.Sc. Nursing 4th year students of
PUSHS are conducting a research study entitled ‘loneliness among school aged children of
selected school of biratnagar-1, Morang. Under the supervision of Lecturer Uma Pradhan
faculty of PUSHS. We are going to give you information about the study and invite you to be a
part of the study. You are given the full right to decide whether to participate in the study or not.
Before you decide, you can talk to anyone you feel comfortable and ask about it. There may be
some words that you may not understand, please ask us to explain it again. If you have any
queries later, you can ask with us. The purpose of our study is to find out the level of loneliness
among school going girls and boys in biratnagar-1, Morang. Your participation in this study is
entirely voluntary. It will take 15 -20 minutes to fill questionnaire. The information provided will
be strictly confidential and only members of research team will have access to it. Confidentiality
and Anonymity will be maintained by using code for questionnaire. The data published in
dissertation and journals will not contain any information through which research participants
will be identified.

Written consent

I read and understood all of the terms and condition and I accept full responsibility for my
responses.

Date of Interview Signature of participant

…………………………………… ……………………………………

41
 APPENDIX II: Research instrument
CODE NO………………

Instruction: Encircle (O) the answer or write in the space provided.

Part I: Question related to Socio-demographic information

1. Age in complete years………

2. Gender: a. Male b. Female
3. Ethnic group:
a. Chhetri b. Brahmin c. Magar

d. Tharu e. If other, please specify……

4. Religion:
a. Hindu b. Buddhist c. Christian

d. Muslim e. Others

5. Grade:
a. 7 b. 8

c. 9 d. 10

6. Type of family
a. Nuclear family b. Joint family/ Extended family

7. Current Residence
a. Hostel b. Relatives house

c. Permanent house d. Others……

42
Part II: Questions related to level of loneliness among students of selected
school of biratnagar, Morang. (Tick (√) mark on any one of the responses
below)

Instruction: The following statements describe how people can feel. For each statement,
indicated how you would feel by putting tick mark, under any one of the four alternatives given.
There is nothing right or wrong answer. Feel free in responding. The information collected will
be kept strictly confidential and used for research purpose only.
S.N Question OFTEN SOMETIMES RARELY NEVER

1 I am unhappy doing so many things

alone

2 I have nobody to talk to

3 I cannot tolerate being so alone

4 I lack companionship

5 I feel as if nobody really understands

me

6 I find myself waiting for people to call

or write

7 There is no one I can turn to

8 I am no longer close to anyone

9 My interests and ideas are not shared

by those around me

10 I feel left out

43
11 I feel completely alone

12 I am unable to reach out and

communicate with those around me

13 My social relationships are superficial

14 I feel starved for company

15 No one really knows me well

16 I feel isolated from others

17 I am unhappy being so withdrawn

18 It is difficult for me to make friends

19 I feel shut out and excluded by others

20 People are around me but not with me

Scoring:
Make all O’s =3, all S’s =2, all R’s =1, and all N’s =0. Keep scoring continuous. Self-
Report Measures for Love and Compassion Research: Loneliness and Interpersonal
Problems.

44
 APPENDIX III: Work plan
Activities Shrawa Bhadr Asoj Karti Mangsi Poush Magh
n a 2080 k r 2080 2080
2080 2080 2080 2080

Topic
selection
Topic
presentatio
n
Literature
review
Proposal
developmen
t
Data
collection
Data
analysis
Data
presentatio
n
Report
writing and
submission

45
 APPENDIX IV: Budget Expenditure

Items Amount

SN

1 Internet service 1,000

2 Printing and binding 5,000

3 Photocopies 1,000

4 Research presentation 500

5 Phone call 200

6 Stationary items 800

8 Total 8,500

46
APPENDIX V: Official letter

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