Perceived Stress and its Association with Hikikomori Traits: An Empirical Study among Adults in India

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Page: 1398-1402

Saakshi Suvarna¹ and Vidya Bhate² (Symbiosis Institute of Health Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra¹ and Department of Psychology, MIT Art Design and Technology University, Rajbaug, Loni Kalbhor, Pune, Maharashtra²)

Stress plays a pivotal role in developing Hikikomori traits, which represents a severe form of social withdrawal commonly found in Japan. Hikikomori has significant health risks, affecting an individual’s psychosocial functioning and quality of life. Latest studies on Hikikomori have reported an increase in the prevalence in countries other than Japan, necessitating further investigations. The present research aims to explore the relationship between Perceived Stress and Hikikomori traits in Indian adults. The cross-sectional study consisted of 158 participants, both genders, between 18-45 years. Participants submitted a demographic data sheet, a 25-item Hikikomori Questionnaire and Perceived Stress Scale-10. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS-30. A significant positive correlation was found between Perceived Stress and Hikikomori Traits (r= 0.51; p<0.001). The domains of PSS-10: Perceived Helplessness (r= 0.37, p<0.001) and Lack of Self-Efficacy (r= 0.29, p<0.001) were significant predictors of Hikikomori. Perceived Helplessness was the most significant predictor of Hikikomori, followed by Lack of Self-Efficacy. The results indicate that Perceived Stress, especially the helplessness domain, plays a significant role in predicting Hikikomori traits. The research highlights the importance of addressing emotional states related to stress, especially helplessness. Prevention and therapeutic interventions to identify, assess and address Hikikomori symptoms in Indian adults need to be tailored.