Abstract
Loneliness is common during adolescence and can have considerable effects on individuals’ social lives. The present paper aims to provide insight into the role of social influences in adolescent loneliness, susceptibility to peer pressure, and substance use. The key finding of several of the discussed studies is that lonely adolescents are more likely to experience peer pressure and engage in risky behaviors such as drug use. Nevertheless, the reviewed articles also suggest the possibility of a reverse connection, implying that experiences of social isolation can be aggravated by the presence of friends who use drugs or participate in other risky activities. Moreover, the discussed research provides evidence that strong family support, parental monitoring, and positive peer networks can reduce these vulnerabilities. Religious social support also appears to be a factor that can prevent adolescent loneliness and substance use. Recent studies also show that mobile interventions targeting rumination, stress, and loneliness can have positive effects on users’ mental health. However, it is of paramount importance to note that loneliness can affect adolescents differently for various reasons. Overall, the reviewed articles provide complex findings that can help explain the mechanisms of adolescent social isolation and the ways it may be prevented. The analyzed research suggests that loneliness can make adolescents more vulnerable to peer influence and substance use, whereas strong social support networks can reduce these risks and help them overcome loneliness.