Do adolescents with high cognitive flexibility feel less lonely? A latent profile analysis of cognitive flexibility in adolescents

Authors : Büşra Kökçam, Zeliha Traş, Merve Akkol

Pages : 844-863

View : 49 | Download : 86

Publication Date : 2024-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Adolescence is a period when loneliness is salient. Loneliness, in turn, gives rise to maladaptive cognitions and interpersonal behaviors, perpetuating a cycle of increased loneliness. Studies indicate that cognitive flexibility, defined as the ability to choose and employ a variety of alternative perspectives and solutions (i.e., coping strategies) in accordance with changing contextual demands, may significantly contribute to adaptive responding to loneliness. In the current study, we aimed to investigate whether different cognitive flexibility profiles of adolescents differ in terms of loneliness and coping strategies. Turkish high school students (N=437, 57% males), aged 14-17 years (M= 16.25, SD=0.92) completed a self-report survey. Analyses revealed three distinct cognitive flexibility profiles (high, moderate and low CF). While the profiles were linearly ordered in terms of considering alternative perspectives and solutions, we found that the members of low cognitive flexibility profile (LCF) had a higher level of control in dealing with challenges than the members of moderate CF. The results suggest that the members of MCF continue to frequently use approach strategies, including problem-solving, despite having low perceived control. Additionally, we explored that sex and primary source of social support predicted different profiles. MCF profile is more commonly found in females, whereas the members of LCF report peers or significant others (vs. family) as their primary source of support. Our conclusion is that enhancing family support and cognitive flexibility can serve as preventive measures against loneliness and related issues in adolescents.
Keywords : Yalnızlık, bilişsel esneklik, başa çıkma stratejileri, sosyal destek, ergenlik, latent profil analizi