# Psychological and social impacts of loneliness

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/psychological-and-social-impacts-of-loneliness
> Updated: 2026-10-29T09:38:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Experts have identified various neurological and behavioral consequences resulting from long-term loneliness. Clinical psychologist Beste Çokavgil noted that loneliness can cause the brain to perceive social environments as threats, keeping the nervous system in a constant state of alertness. This state may lead to sleep disturbances, decreased attention spans, mental fatigue, and weakened cognitive functions such as memory and learning.

Expanding on these psychological effects, Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy identified loneliness as a potential risk factor for criminal behavior. While not a direct cause of crime, Atasoy stated that the subjective feeling of lacking social connections can increase frustration, anger, and impulsivity. Furthermore, social exclusion during childhood and adolescence may increase risks of aggression and substance abuse as individuals seek belonging within problematic peer groups.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Sevil Atasoy identifies loneliness as a psychological risk factor for crime

Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy explains how loneliness acts as a psychological risk factor that can increase impulsivity and aggression by weakening social bonds and emotional regulation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sevil-atasoy-identifies-loneliness-as-a-psychological-risk-factor-for-crime

### 2026-09-30: Loneliness causes brain to perceive social environments as threats

Clinical psychologist Beste Çokavgil warns that long-term loneliness can cause the brain to perceive social environments as threats, leading to sleep, attention, and memory issues.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/loneliness-causes-brain-to-perceive-social-environments-as-threats

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Cite as: Psychological and social impacts of loneliness. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/psychological-and-social-impacts-of-loneliness