Psychometric Analysis of the Short-Form UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS-6) Among Palestinian University Students

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to analyze the psychometric characteristics of the short-form UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS-6) among Palestinian university students. The sample consisted of 288 university students (56% women and 44% men), aged 18-22 years. The psychometric characteristics of the ULS-6 were examined using confirmatory factor analysis, reliability analysis, and criterion-related validity methods. The unidimensionality of the ULS-6 was supported among Palestinian university students. The ULS-6 showed good psychometric characteristics, with adequate internal consistency. In addition, the ULS-6 was negatively correlated with significant others support, family support, friends support, self-esteem and satisfaction with life. The results of the present study suggested that the Arabic version of the ULS-6 constitutes a concise psychometrically sound tool to assess loneliness.

Keywords

• loneliness
• confirmatory factor analysis
• short-form UCLA Loneliness Scale
• ULS-6