Relational Mechanisms Explaining the Loneliness-Performance Relationship
Loneliness, because of its inherently relational nature, is expected to not only inform
employees’ individual attention and cognition, but also how they feel about the more social and
relational aspects of their work environment. Because they feel more estranged and less
connected to coworkers, lonelier employees will be more likely to experience a lack of
belongingness at work, thus decreasing their affective commitment to their organizations.
Affective commitment refers to an employee’s emotional attachment to, identification with, and
involvement in his or her organization through such feelings as affection, warmth, and
belongingness which lead to a rewarding work experience