universalising cultural differences.

sensationalising the experience of death and dying.

putting too much emphasis on environmental factors.

the methodology used.

Aloneness can hurt; loneliness may heal.

Loneliness is a preferred condition; aloneness is a distressing and painful emotional state.

Loneliness is the pain of being alone; aloneness is the joy of being alone.

Aloneness is a sign of emptiness; loneliness is a sign of a need to engage with others.

Locus of control.

Self-esteem.

feel that they have control over their future.

believe that they can solve problems that arise in their lives.

have a fatalistic sense of a predetermined future.