Loneliness as a Social Issue

Meaningful forms of social connection, participation and belonging are critical for human flourishing. Yet, recent surveys in Canada show significant and concerning numbers of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation – both before and during the pandemic. 

In this Lunch & Learn, associate professor Tara Milbrandt (U of A Augustana) and assistant professor Ondine Park (UBC Okanagan) approach loneliness as a complex social issue of the times. They will provide an overview of recent research on loneliness, highlighting the different ways it connects to technology, built environment and dominant ideas pertaining to individualism. They will also discuss existing approaches, interventions and proposed solutions to addressing loneliness and social isolation in Canada.

Light refreshments will be available, and you are invited to bring your own lunch or visit the Monica's Café (located in the forum building at Augustana Campus) before or after our event!
 

About the Speakers:

Tara Milbrandt, associate professor of Sociology (University of Alberta Augustana Campus), is an interpretive sociologist who works in the areas of social theory, visual media/mediation, urban culture and everyday life.

Ondine Park (‘14 PhD), assistant professor of Sociology (University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus), is a critical cultural sociologist and social theorist whose research explores the ways in which everyday spatio-temporalities are imagined, represented and challenged.