Why Japanese People Choose to Live a Life of Solitude and Reclusion

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Recently, Japan has seen a noticeable increase in the number of people choosing to live alone. This phenomenon, known in Japan as hikikomori or hikki, involves people withdrawing from social interactions for six months or longer. According to statistics, the number of hikikomori in Japan has reached approximately two million, with 10% of the population in large cities living as hermits.

History of the development of hikikomori and reasons for its popularity in Japan

The hikikomori phenomenon first gained significant attention after a 14-year-old boy returned from school, locked himself in the kitchen, and refused to come out or talk to anyone. He remained in self-imposed isolation for three years before his story was reported in the media. His parents reported that he only left the house once every six months to wash himself, and the final outcome of his story remains unknown.

Japanese psychiatrist Tamaki Saito began studying hikikomori in the early 1990s after encountering numerous cases among teenagers. He noted that the phenomenon likely originated in the 1970s, long before the widespread use of the Internet. However, it has become much more common in the 21st century.

Reasons for going into seclusion

Japanese scientists explain the emergence of hikikomori by several factors.

High expectations of society

Japan's demanding educational and corporate environments put enormous pressure on people to excel in their studies, get into prestigious universities, and get a job with a good reputation. Corporate culture compounds this pressure with long working hours, a ban on leaving work before management, and mandatory socializing after work. Many people who are unable to cope with these strict demands decide to become hikikomori.

Psychologists note that teenagers often withdraw into themselves due to parental pressure, while men over 40 may do this during midlife crises.

Life online

Social media, online gaming, and virtual reality provide alternative opportunities for socializing, though often at the expense of personal relationships. This digital immersion can foster a sense of pseudo-connection while at the same time increasing feelings of loneliness.

In Japan, it is not customary to go to psychologists

In Japan, seeking psychological help is often considered shameful. Consequently, there are only three psychologists per 100,000 people. This situation and the lack of available support lead many people to choose solitude as a means of coping.

As J.K. Rowling said, "Loneliness is the worst poverty."

This is especially true in a society where mental health issues are not recognized.

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Dissatisfaction with family life

A survey by the Japan Family Planning Association found that about 50 percent of married couples have not had s ex for a month or more. The lack of intimacy in marriage can also lead to isolation for individuals.

With the population rapidly aging and the birth rate declining, the traditional family structure is breaking down. More and more elderly people are living alone, either by choice or due to certain circumstances.

The "80/50 problem" highlights the burden placed on elderly parents, often in their 80s, who are forced to care for their reclusive 50-year-old children. The responsibility for providing financial support for these hikikomori falls largely on their elderly parents or relatives.

Solving the problem of loneliness

The problem of isolation in Japan has reached a significant scale, which has required government intervention. Initiatives such as 24-hour hotlines and the “You Are Not Alone” information project, which provides special services to minors, have been launched. In addition, the “Act for the Promotion of Policies to Combat Loneliness and Isolation” has been passed to address this growing problem.

In Japan, "help societies for anonymous hermits" have been established where hikikomori can gather and share their experiences. Counselors in these societies provide support, helping people return to normal life and facilitating their communication with others.

Despite these efforts, problems remain.

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