Busy, modern workplaces can be social, dynamic and productive spaces.
But paradoxically, they also can be some of the loneliest places to be.
That’s the finding of a broad review of research done by behavioral scientists at Portland State University. The analysis covered more than 200 studies that touch on loneliness in the workplace.
Humans fundamentally need other people. And the PSU authors say loneliness happens when someone desires more or deeper social connections than they perceive they have.
In 2023, the surgeon general’s office identified loneliness as an “epidemic” in the United States, stating in a report that “the lack of social connection poses a significant risk for individual health and longevity.” It found loneliness increases the risk of premature death by more than 25% — a similar impact as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
The PSU review looked specifically at loneliness in the workplace.
It found that while someone’s personality traits (like lack of extroversion or neuroticism) or demographics (i.e. being a woman) might increase the likelihood of workplace loneliness, these factors in the work environment can also play a significant role:
- Increased remote work
- A growing reliance on technology and the associated “technostress”
- Heightened stress levels
- Lack of inclusiveness in the workplace
- The rise and integration of artificial intelligence
- Unsupportive managers
- Low income level
- Lack of control over work environment
- Leadership status
Many of these factors intensified with the COVID-19 pandemic as employers adapted to cope with the changing social norms.
FILE - People work at the Yelp office in San Francisco on Feb. 14, 2023. Remote work has intensified loneliness in the workplace. Experts say friendships and a sense of belonging are vital to employees’ happiness. And also to companies’ success.
Jeff Chiu / AP
The PSU researchers didn’t pinpoint how prevalent workplace loneliness is, but a 2025 Gallup report found that about 1 out of every 5 people worldwide experienced significant loneliness at work.
The researchers found that when people experience chronic loneliness at work, their level of job satisfaction, focus, performance and creativity dips.
On the bright side, some employers have found success combating workplace loneliness by helping workers manage stress and develop social skills.
The research is published in the Journal of Management here.
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