acknowledge that loneliness is not synonymous with social isolation but is a social pain that functions to motivate the formation and renewal of meaningful social relationships. When feelings of loneliness fail to accomplish their adaptive purpose, chronic loneliness may ensue. Chronic loneliness tends to be self-perpetuating through confirmatory biases that alter cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. Given the importance of social connection to people’s health and well-being, it is important that we solve the puzzle of how to help the chronically lonely connect with others in meaningful and satisfying ways.
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