Psychological Profiles of Socially Isolated Young Adults in South Korea: A Latent Profile Analysis of Self-Esteem and Depression, and Differences in Life Satisfaction.

BACKGROUND

Social isolation among young adults-a growing concern worldwide-is associated with poor psychological outcomes, including low self-esteem and depression. In South Korea, socially isolated young adults have recently gained policy attention; however, knowledge regarding their psychological heterogeneity remains limited. Consequently, this study aimed to identify latent profiles of socially isolated young adults based on self-esteem and depression, examine predictors of profile membership, and assess differences in life satisfaction across the identified profiles.

METHODS

Data were collected using an online survey of 302 socially isolated young adults aged 19 to 34 in South Korea. Measures included self-esteem, depression, social support, subjective health, negative life experiences, the frequency of going out, and income-generating activity. We employed latent profile analysis using self-esteem and depression as profile indicators and examined predictors of profile membership. Life satisfaction was assessed as a distal outcome across the identified profiles.

RESULTS

The following three profiles were identified: the psychologically moderately vulnerable (PMV) group (34.4%), the psychologically highly vulnerable (PHV) group (57.3%), and the psychologically stable (PS) group (8.3%). Predictors of subgroup membership included older age, poorer health, adverse childhood experiences, lower social support, lower frequency of going out, and income-generating activity. Life satisfaction was the highest in PS (M = 4.19), followed by PHV (M = 2.55), and the lowest in PMV (M = 1.52).

CONCLUSIONS

This study's findings indicate that socially isolated young adults are not a homogeneous group but differ in psychological characteristics and associated factors. Interventions should focus on alleviating depression, improving self-esteem, and enhancing social support. Policies should extend beyond employment-oriented approaches to address this population's diverse psychological and social needs.