Predictors of loneliness among adolescents from Portuguese immigrant families in Switzerland

In this study we aimed to find out the degree of loneliness among Portuguese adolescents from immigrant backgrounds in Switzerland, and the factors that may predict the level of loneliness among them. There were no significant differences between Portuguese adolescents living in Portugal and in Switzerland in terms of level of loneliness. Sociodemographic, intercultural contact, and psychosocial adjustment variables accounted for 35% of the variance explained. Majority language proficiency was the most important predictor of loneliness. Implications of the study for counselors are suggested.