Intervention Effectiveness for Social Connection: An Emphasis on Outcomes and Measurement

Social connection is an umbrella term that encompasses structural, functional, and quality aspects and reflects ways a person connects to others physically, behaviorally, cognitively, and emotionally. Social connection can be hindered by limited social networks, relationships, or interactions; diminished perceived support, inclusion, or companionship; or feelings of being isolated, not belonging, or discontent with friendships and relationships. While some subgroups are disproportionately burdened by social disconnection, it is prevalent across all ages; racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds; socioeconomic status levels; and geographic regions. Given the growing importance of this public health issue from adolescence to older adulthood, additional efforts are needed to better understand the programs, services, and resources that promote social connection across the life-course.This Research Topic features articles specifically demonstrating the effectiveness of interventions (inclusive of programs, services, resources, technological solutions, etc.) on social connection outcomes (inclusive of social isolation, loneliness, belonging, inclusion, cohesion, social networks, social and/or community support, etc.). Articles must pertain to effectiveness research (inclusive of randomized and pragmatic trials, comparative effectiveness studies, evaluations with repeated measures). Non-experimental studies that are descriptive, correlational, naturalistic observation, or otherwise not examining the effectiveness of interventions will not be considered. Given the importance of measurement to effectiveness research, articles pertaining to the measurement of social connection aspects may be considered (e.g., development and validation studies).This Research Topic will advance ongoing national and international efforts by contributing to what is known about social connection measurement and interventions across the life-course. We will highlight opportunities to promote social connection across settings, encourage meaningful interactions, and create supportive and inclusive communities Topic editors: Matthew Lee Smith, ROGER O'SULLIVAN, Tyler Prochnow Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80554/intervention-effectiveness-for-social-connection-an-emphasis-on-outcomes-and-measurement