Tackling loneliness in Berlin: a scoping review integrating an inter- and transdisciplinary framework

Abstract Aim This study aimed, firstly, to explore how loneliness is conceptualized and studied in Berlin across disciplines, to identify vulnerable subpopulations, and to discern mitigation strategies outlined in the academic literature; secondly, to highlight nonacademic, community-based initiatives addressing loneliness; and finally, to compare academic and public efforts. Subject and methods This inter- and transdisciplinary scoping review assessed academic literature from the past 5 years across the disciplines of health, psychology, sociology, and urban planning. Literature was collected via Web of Science and PubMed according to a search protocol and was afterwards charted. Gray literature was collected from local websites and visits to project sites and relevant events in Berlin. Results Findings show that health and psychology disciplines focus on “emotional loneliness” in Berlin, while sociology and urban planning examine “social” or “collective loneliness,” with limited integration across perspectives. The elderly, women, migrants, and people experiencing homelessness emerged as vulnerable groups. Suggested interventions include interventions in public spaces, the addition of greenery to neighborhoods, and development of tailored programs. In the civil sector, various initiatives exist in Berlin and tend to focus on the elderly and space-based support. Conclusion Academic discourse on loneliness is largely stratified by discipline. Additionally, the paper revealed a two-way gap between academic research and urban practice. Limited attention is given to addressing loneliness among non-German-speaking migrants and homeless populations in public efforts, despite academic findings that these groups are especially susceptible to loneliness. Meanwhile, although urban infrastructure and housing are priorities in public initiatives, they are underexplored in academic research.