The Invisible Members of Society
Hikikomori [ひきこもり], literally translated as ‘pulling into seclusion’ is a rising social phenomenon in Japan where one withdraws from any form of direct social interaction with others. The term hikikomori refers to both the phenomenon and the person themselves.
Due to the extreme degree of their self-isolation, a hikikomori is practically non-existent to society.
Becoming A Hikikomori
Simply being a shut-in for a few days does not qualify oneself as a hikikomori. They are considered as such when they deliberately chose to be homebound for months and in some cases even years; avoiding any responsibilities such as work and school. As such, those who are homebound due to their physical and mental limitation will not be termed as hikikomori as they do not choose to be so out of their own free will. During this period, a hikikomori will start to cut off any interpersonal communication and eventually completely isolate oneself.
Life Within the Walls
As a hikikomori gradually sinks into a life of social withdrawal, they would often end up with an inverted day-and-night schedule, all to avoid direct contact with others. Many would then spend their newfound free time on the internet or playing games, sometimes even interacting with others through these means. One common misconception about hikikomori is that they do not interact with people completely, but in reality, the form of social withdrawal that a hikikomori goes through only applies to direct face-to-face interaction.
Moving Onwards
Being hikikomori is often motivated by a sense of self-preservation towards one's self-identity; a form of self-defense mechanism when one cannot cope with the expected social responsibilities. The longer one remain cocooned in their home, the harder it is for one to break free from it. It is not enough for hikikomori to just step out of their seclusion, they will have to be re-integrated into social norms by resuming their own social roles. This will only be possible if a hikikomori realises that their behaviours are problematic and are willing to change. They ultimately have to come to terms with themselves in order to break free.