Sunday, May 8, 2011
The population of Hikikomori people in Japan is estimated about 700 thousands. They need support to overcome Hikikomori. But some non Hikikomori people also need it.
People define Hikikomori in many ways. But most technical definitions require Hikikomori continue at least six months.
For example, the new Hikikomori guideline by Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare defines Hikikomori as "A phenomenal concept which means avoiding social participation (e.g. school attendance including compulsory education, entering the workforce including part-time job and associating with somebody outside the home) and generally remaining at home for six month and over in principle (including going outside without associating with somebody). Moreover, ...."
When researchers estimate Hikikomori population, they use such definitions. So, in many cases, those who seclude themselves in their homes within six months are not counted as Hikikomori. For example, if one Hikikomori man begin working as a temporary worker and shut himself in their homes again after the term of employment, he is not counted as a Hikikomori until he remains withdrawing for at least six months.
We need to remember that when we interpret the data about Hikikomori. For instance, the Cabinet Office's estimate of Hikikomori population is about 700 thousands (as at Feb 2010). But that doesn't include people who are isolated from society within six months.
In my view, such non Hikikomori people sometimes need help. It is odd if young hermits are refused to receive helps from mental heath centers because they have socially withdrawn for only five months. In addition, even if they begin participating society, their problems that lead them to Hikikomori are not necessarily eliminated. Some of them need follow-up support. I know a lot of such non Hikikomori people.
[Related links]
New guidline for assessment and support for Hikikomori
(new window open)
The Cabinet Office released a survey on Hikikomori
(new window open)
People define Hikikomori in many ways. But most technical definitions require Hikikomori continue at least six months.
For example, the new Hikikomori guideline by Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare defines Hikikomori as "A phenomenal concept which means avoiding social participation (e.g. school attendance including compulsory education, entering the workforce including part-time job and associating with somebody outside the home) and generally remaining at home for six month and over in principle (including going outside without associating with somebody). Moreover, ...."
When researchers estimate Hikikomori population, they use such definitions. So, in many cases, those who seclude themselves in their homes within six months are not counted as Hikikomori. For example, if one Hikikomori man begin working as a temporary worker and shut himself in their homes again after the term of employment, he is not counted as a Hikikomori until he remains withdrawing for at least six months.
We need to remember that when we interpret the data about Hikikomori. For instance, the Cabinet Office's estimate of Hikikomori population is about 700 thousands (as at Feb 2010). But that doesn't include people who are isolated from society within six months.
In my view, such non Hikikomori people sometimes need help. It is odd if young hermits are refused to receive helps from mental heath centers because they have socially withdrawn for only five months. In addition, even if they begin participating society, their problems that lead them to Hikikomori are not necessarily eliminated. Some of them need follow-up support. I know a lot of such non Hikikomori people.
[Related links]
New guidline for assessment and support for Hikikomori
(new window open)
The Cabinet Office released a survey on Hikikomori
(new window open)
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