Abstract

This qualitative study explored emotional loneliness and changing conceptions of happiness among middle- aged Vietnamese adults through socioemotional selectivity theory. Written semi-structured interviews with nine participants in Ho Chi Minh City were analyzed thematically. Three themes were identified: 1) “loneliness in a crowd” within dense relational networks, sustained by self-reliance and emotional restraint; 2) a shift from money, status, and achievement toward inner peace, family, and contentment; and 3) selective narrowing of social ties and the use of meditation, prayer, and karmic beliefs to regulate emotions and turn loneliness into positive solitude. The findings support the theory while highlighting Vietnamese cultural nuances.

Keywords: Emotional loneliness, subjective well-being, middle-aged adults, socioemotional selectivity, qualitative research.