Hikikomori is a term originating from Japan that refers to a phenomenon where individuals, typically young adults, withdraw from social interactions and isolate themselves from society for an extended period of time. Hikikomori individuals often confine themselves to their homes or bedrooms, avoiding contact with the outside world, including school, work, and social activities.
The term "hikikomori" can be translated as "pulling inward" or "being confined." It is not just a simple case of social withdrawal or introversion but rather a more severe and prolonged form of isolation. Hikikomori individuals may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, or difficulty in coping with societal pressures, leading them to retreat from social life.
The hikikomori phenomenon has been a topic of concern in Japan, where it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of individuals may be affected. It is seen as a complex issue with various factors contributing to its development, including family dynamics, societal pressures, academic stress, and the rapid changes in modern society.
Efforts have been made in Japan to address the hikikomori phenomenon through support programs, counseling, and community initiatives aimed at reintegrating individuals back into society. However, hikikomori remains a significant social and psychological challenge, not limited to Japan, as cases of social withdrawal have been observed in other countries as well.