17092R2m-4 When Personality Matters: How Introversion and Extraversion Moderate the Relationship Between Self-Esteem and Loneliness in Non-Local College Students

Abstract

Non-local college students often experience loneliness due to separation from their families and the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Loneliness negatively affects psychological well-being and is closely related to self-esteem. This study aims to examine the relationship between self-esteem and loneliness, and to explore the moderating role of personality types (introversion and extraversion) in this relationship among non-local college students at Mercu Buana University, West Jakarta. A quantitative approach with moderator analysis was employed. The sample consisted of 180 participants selected using purposive sampling. The study utilized the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Eysenck Personality Inventory. The results indicated a significant negative relationship between self-esteem and loneliness. Furthermore, personality type moderated this relationship. Students with introverted personalities were found to be more susceptible to loneliness due to lower self-esteem levels. In contrast, extraverted students tended to adapt more easily to social environments, resulting in lower levels of loneliness.