What is Hikikomori – the Phenomenon That Causes Loneliness in Japan? | world news

A new form of segregation known as “Hikikomori” or “Shut-ins” is spreading rapidly across Japan, leaving nearly 1.5 million Japanese of working age living in seclusion, a government survey shows. According to the survey, about a fifth of the isolated cases are linked to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Agence France-Presse.

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Here’s everything you need to know about Hikikomori in Japan:

1. Hikikomori refers to the phenomenon of social withdrawal in which people – especially young people – withdraw from social interaction and isolate themselves. This leads to people staying at home longer and/or going out only to buy groceries or pursue hobbies.
2. According to the government survey, the most common reason given by respondents for quitting society was “resignation”, followed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
3. Officials also say nerds are starting to withdraw from mainstream society due to relationship problems, depression and bullying.
4. The Cabinet Office, which surveyed 30,000 people in November, said about 2 percent, or about 1.46 million, of respondents aged 15 to 64 had withdrawn from society, while more than 20 percent had difficulties in relationships. came to the question, reported by the guardian.
5. “Some (18%) fit the definition of ‘nerds’ because they were dissuaded by Covid from going out and therefore ended up with less contact,” a cabinet official told AFP.

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Notably, in 2021, Japan has appointed a “Minister of Loneliness” to oversee the government’s policy to tackle loneliness and isolation.

(according to agency opinion)