Caught in the Web: Exploring Internet Use Habits and Hikikomori Traits in Indian Adults

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21295362

Vaidehi Kaplay¹ and Vidya Bhate² (Symbiosis Institute of Health Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra1 and Department of Psychology, MIT Art Design and Technology University, Pune, Maharashtra²)

Internet use habits in extreme, have led to increasing concerns about social functioning, as the convenience offered by the Internet continues to reshape human interactions. Hikikomori, a Japanese-originated phenomenon of social withdrawal, is characterised by detachment from social activities and the reluctance to interact with people. This research aims to investigate the relationship between Internet Use Habits and Hikikomori traits. This research comprises a cross-sectional design with 228 respondents aged 18-35 years who filled the Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ) and the 25-item Hikikomori Questionnaire (HQ-25). SPSS 30 software was used for data analysis. Analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between Problematic Internet Use and Hikikomori traits r= 0.252 (p<0.001), even after adjusting for age, gender, and duration of occupational Internet use r= 0.256 (p< 0.001). The Neglect domain of PIUQ had a comparatively strong positive correlation with Hikikomori traits r= 0.282 (p< 0.001). The Multiple Linear Regression Analysis revealed that Neglect was a strong predictor of Hikikomori traits r= 0.188 (p<0.01). The research suggests that PIU and the severity of Hikikomori traits evidently have a significant positive relationship in Indian adults, with neglect of real-life duties as a strong predictor. The current research’s broader focus on Internet Use Habits and their novel association with Hikikomori traits in the Indian context extensively guides future studies. The findings suggest a need for interventions by mental health professionals, policy-makers, and organisations to balance Internet Use, social interactions and real-life responsibilities.