Beyond the Locked Door: Hikikomori Through a Clinical Lens

Hikikomori, first identified in Japan, refers to individuals who withdraw from society and confine themselves to their homes, often remaining isolated in their bedrooms. Those affected typically disengage from education, employment, and daily activities, leading to significant functional impairment. While initially considered a culture-bound syndrome, growing evidence in recent decades suggests that hikikomori is a global phenomenon. Individuals with this condition often come into contact with healthcare systems through legal interventions. Here, we present two cases of Portuguese males with hikikomori syndrome who have committed sexual crimes.