Psychometric Analysis of the Short-Form UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS-6) Among Palestinian University Students
Authors
Filasteen I. Nazzal
Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
Orlanda Cruz
Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
Félix Neto
Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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.