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Solitude is Good? Positive Solitude, Peer Interaction, and Psychosocial Adjustment in Later Childhood

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  • Jianping Ma

    (Shandong Normal University)

Abstract

This study explored the association between the balance of positive solitude-peer interactions and psychosocial adjustment. A total of 554 children (Mage = 10.56, SD = 0.84, 58.3% boys) participated in this three-wave study with a six-month lag. They completed questionnaires that assessed positive solitude, relational aggression, relational victimization, depression, and life satisfaction in three waves at approximately six months intervals. Cross-lagged panel analysis revealed that peer interactions (relational victimization and aggression) and depression significantly predicted reductions in positive solitude over time. In contrast, positive solitude demonstrated a bidirectional relationship with life satisfaction, resulting in a reinforcing developmental cycle. These findings underscore the role of negative peer interactions and depression as a precursor to diminished solitude experiences. More importantly, they highlight the protective function of positive solitude in promoting life satisfaction.

Suggested Citation

  • Jianping Ma, 2025. "Solitude is Good? Positive Solitude, Peer Interaction, and Psychosocial Adjustment in Later Childhood," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 26(5), pages 1-18, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:26:y:2025:i:5:d:10.1007_s10902-025-00908-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-025-00908-1
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