Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Outcomes of a Mobile Adaptation of a Relational Savoring Intervention to Prevent Loneliness in College Students: Mixed Methods Pilot Study

Abstract

<p>Background: Rates of loneliness have risen sharply since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to disruptions in social relationships and daily routines, with college students experiencing some of the greatest increases. While prevention programs targeting loneliness have been developed, their success has been limited. One promising approach may lie in enhancing the quality of existing relationships rather than simply increasing social interactions during periods of acute loneliness. Relational savoring, an intervention rooted in attachment theory and positive psychology, aims to deepen feelings of connection by encouraging individuals to reflect on positive interpersonal experiences.</p><p>Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of a mobile health adaptation of relational savoring, termed mSavorUs (developed by Amir Rahmani), designed to prevent and reduce loneliness among college students.</p><p>Methods: A randomized controlled pilot study was conducted with a diverse sample of 29 college students (43.3% Latinx, 40% Asian American, and 16.7% White). The intervention leveraged a smart ring, smartwatch, and smartphone app to enable just-in-time delivery of relational savoring prompts, alongside continuous monitoring of loneliness-related indicators (eg, physiological activity, sleep, and behavior). Aim 1 involved a thematic analysis of participant feedback regarding the utility, benefits, and challenges of both mSavorUs and the monitoring tools. Aim 2 examined the intervention’s effects on loneliness and perceived connectedness.</p><p>Results: For aim 1, qualitative findings suggested that participants found the content of mSavorUs (developed by Amir Rahmani) rewarding and helpful; however, the timing of the intervention was often experienced as disruptive. For aim 2, quantitative analyses revealed no significant reductions in loneliness or increases in connectedness, indicating the need for adjustments to the intervention delivery method.</p><p>Conclusions: Although participants found the intervention content valuable, the just-in-time delivery format may have limited its effectiveness. Future iterations should consider alternative timing or delivery strategies to maximize program benefits.</p>