Prevalence of and factors influencing Hikikomori in Osaka City, Japan: A population-based cross-sectional study.

This article focuses on the prevalence and associated factors of hikikomori—a social condition defined by prolonged withdrawal from social participation beyond family members, lasting six months or longer—among working-age populations in Osaka City, Japan. Using a cross-sectional survey of 3,092 individuals aged 15 to 64 years, the study found an overall hikikomori prevalence of 2.3%, with rates of 2.12% among teenagers/young adults (15–39 years) and 2.42% among middle-aged/older adults (40–64 years). Key factors independently associated with hikikomori included unemployment, truancy, a history of psychiatric consultation or hospitalization, male gender, and absence of ibasho—a place where individuals feel peace, security, acceptance, and belonging. Notably, the study identified differences between age groups: among teenagers/young adults, limited social circles, absence of ibasho, perceived mental health issues, and psychiatric history were significant, whereas among middle-aged/older adults, truancy and male gender were more strongly linked to hikikomori. These findings highlight the importance of age-specific considerations and the role of social and psychological environments in understanding and addressing hikikomori.