The psychometric properties of a self- report scale on assessing social interaction of people with prolonged social withdrawal (HIKIKOMORI)

Abstract

This study assessed the social interaction behaviors of individuals with prolonged social withdrawal (HIKIKOMORI), subsequently developing a 26-item self-reported scale called the Adaptive Behaviors Scale for Hikikomori Self Report version (ABS-H-SR). The psychometric properties of the scale were confirmed using the item response theory. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) analysis were conducted using data from participants classified into three groups: the HIKIKOMORI group (n = 72), those who previously experienced it (previous group; n = 175), and the control group (n = 849). The reliability was assessed using the test-retest method and Cronbach’s alpha. The results suggest a reliable scale with acceptable criterion-related, convergent, and discriminant validity. This study suggests that the ABS-H-SR adequately assessed the social interaction behaviors of individuals with prolonged social withdrawal (HIKIKOMORI). Further research may clarify the extent to which the ABS-H-SR is sensitive to changes in the characteristics of prolonged social withdrawal (HIKIKOMORI).