Association Between Loneliness and Hikikomori Symptoms. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Hikikomori, a severe form of social withdrawal, is a growing concern.
• Loneliness is a subjective feeling of social isolation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the association between loneliness and hikikomori symptoms.
• To synthesize existing evidence on the relationship between these two phenomena.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched three electronic databases and conducted a hand search.
• Included eight observational cross-sectional studies.

Main Results:

• A strong positive association was found between loneliness and hikikomori symptoms (r = 0.68).
• Loneliness showed significant correlations with socialization (r = 0.54), isolation (r = 0.62), and emotional support (r = 0.71).
• The association was stronger in Asian countries (r = 0.90) compared to European countries (r = 0.66).

Conclusions:

• A robust positive association exists between loneliness and hikikomori symptoms.
• Longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causality.
• Further research is needed in under-researched geographical regions.