UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3, 20-item)
Assess your subjective feelings of loneliness
Based on Russell (1996). A 20-item scale measuring subjective feelings of loneliness and social isolation. 4-point Likert scale (1=Never to 4=Always). Total score ranges 20-80, with higher scores indicating greater loneliness. Requires approximately 5 minutes. Note: This is a screening tool, not a clinical diagnostic instrument.
What Is Loneliness?
Loneliness is a subjective emotional experience reflecting the perceived gap between one's desired and actual social relationships. It differs from social isolation — one can live alone without feeling lonely, or feel lonely in a crowd.
The UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3), revised by Russell (1996), is one of the most widely used self-report measures of loneliness. It contains 20 items rated on a 4-point Likert scale (1=Never to 4=Always), assessing the quality of one's social relationships.
Scoring
- Reverse-scored items (1, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 20): 1→4, 2→3, 3→2, 4→1
- Forward-scored items (2, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18): 1→1, 2→2, 3→3, 4→4
- Total score range: 20-80
Score Interpretation
| Score Range | Loneliness Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 20-34 | Low | Social needs are largely met |
| 35-49 | Moderate | Some social needs unmet |
| 50-64 | Moderately High | Frequent feelings of isolation, may need attention |
| 65-80 | High | Intense loneliness, professional assessment recommended |
Psychometric Properties
The UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3) demonstrates strong psychometric properties. Internal consistency α = 0.89-0.94 across samples, test-retest reliability r = 0.73 over 12 months. Moderate correlations with depression (r = 0.50-0.60) and self-esteem (r = -0.40 to -0.50) support discriminant validity (Russell, 1996).
Disclaimer
This scale is a screening tool and cannot replace professional clinical diagnosis. If you score high, consider seeking evaluation from a mental health professional. Persistent intense loneliness may be associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Reference
Russell, D. W. (1996). UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3): Reliability, validity, and factor structure. *Journal of Personality Assessment*, 66(1), 20-40.Scoring Guide
Reverse-scored items (1, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 20): 1->4, 2->3, 3->2, 4->1. Forward-scored items: 1->1, 2->2, 3->3, 4->4. Sum all 20 items for total score (20-80). Higher scores indicate greater loneliness. Interpretive guidelines: 20-34 = low loneliness, 35-49 = moderate loneliness, 50-64 = moderately high loneliness, 65-80 = high loneliness. Note: This scale is a screening tool, not a clinical diagnostic instrument. Scores above 50 may warrant further assessment.
Result Interpretation
After completing the 20 questions, you'll receive an immediate, detailed report with:
- Your score — calculated automatically based on your responses
- Score interpretation — what your score means in practical terms
- Context — how your results compare to general population norms where available
All results are displayed instantly on screen. No account, email, or login required.