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THE LONELINESS QUIZ
by Daniel Russell, PhD

The loneliness quiz Daniel Russell, PhD, one of the creators of the UCLA Loneliness Scale, has provided this measurement to determine your loneliness quotient. The test has roughly the same accuracy rate of the original scale (which is reserved for research use). Answer each statement using the following guide:
  1. How often do you feel unhappy doing so many things alone?
    never rarely sometimes always
  2. How often do you feel you have no one to talk to?
    never rarely sometimes always
  3. How often do you feel you cannot tolerate being so alone?
    never rarely sometimes always
  4. How often do you feel as if no one understands you?
    never rarely sometimes always
  5. How often do you find yourself waiting for people to call or write?
    never rarely sometimes always
  6. How often do you feel completely alone?
    never rarely sometimes always
  7. How often do you feel unable to reach out and communicate with those around you?
    never rarely sometimes always
  8. How often do you feel starved for company?
    never rarely sometimes always
  9. How often do you feel it is difficult for you to make friends?
    never rarely sometimes always
  10. How often do you feel shut out and excluded by others?
    never rarely sometimes always

Read more about loneliness in the June 2006 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine. Subscribe now!