Association Between the Affinity for Hikikomori (Prolonged Social Withdrawal) and Increased Hikikomori Tendencies in University Students

These findings suggest that individuals at potential risk of developing hikikomori may be better identified by considering environmental (e.g., social support), behavioral (e.g., coping with stress), and cognitive and affective (e.g., desire for hikikomori) variables. Notably, empathy for others with hikikomori may reflect general empathic traits rather than being specifically related to hikikomori. Future longitudinal research should identify any causal relationships.