Does the Hikikomori Syndrome of Social Withdrawal Exist in Denmark? A Research Request.

Abstract

Hikikomori, a severe form of social withdrawal, has long been examined in Japan. Hikikomori-like incidents have also lately been described in many other countries but not in Denmark or any other Scandinavian country thus far. The reason for this is unknown. However, looking at existing research and global attention and its relevance to psychiatric practice today, hikikomori appears as a syndrome that cannot be confined solely to the field of some countries or cultures. Rather, it emerges as a phenomenon that may also concern many aspects of a modern society like the Danish. In the light of considerable quality research on hikikomori in Japan and with increasing international awareness and experiences, the author hereby calls on the health and research community to draw crucial interest to Scandinavian countries, such as Denmark.