Why a crowded office can be the loneliest place on earth

A comprehensive new review published in the Journal of Management synthesizes decades of research to understand the epidemic of workplace loneliness. By analyzing 233 empirical studies, researchers from Portland State University have identified how workplace conditions contribute to isolation and offer evidence-based paths to reconnection.

The research emphasizes that loneliness is distinct from social isolation. While isolation is about being alone, loneliness is the subjective feeling that one’s social relationships are deficient—meaning employees can feel deeply lonely even in a crowded office.

"Given the connection between workplace characteristics and loneliness, organizations should consider that loneliness is not a personal issue, and instead is a business issue," said Berrin Erdogan, professor of management at Portland State. "Businesses have an opportunity to design jobs and organizations in a way that will prioritize employee relational well being."

Key Findings:

• The "Hunger" Signal: Like hunger signals a need for food, temporary loneliness is a biological signal encouraging us to seek connection. However, when loneliness becomes chronic, it harms emotional and cognitive well-being.

• The Employment Paradox: Generally, having a job keeps loneliness at bay; unemployed and retired individuals report higher levels of loneliness than the employed. However, the quality of the job matters. Roles with high stress, low autonomy, and poor support from managers are major risk factors.

• The Ripple Effect: Loneliness is contagious in leadership. The study found that lonely managers are not only less effective but can harm the well-being of their employees.

"Work can be a sanctuary from loneliness, but it can also be the source," the researchers note.

The review identifies several promising interventions to combat chronic loneliness. Organizations can help by offering training on stress management and social skills, while individuals found relief through mindfulness practices and engagement in volunteering activities.