Hikikomori in Japanese youth: some possible pathways for alleviating this problem from the perspective of dynamic systems theory

In this paper, we will discuss the problem of hikikomori, in which an individual remains at home, typically isolated in the bedroom, with limited contact to the outside world. Hikikomori has been discussed primarily from a psychological perspective in Japan. In this paper, we take dynamic systems perspective, incorporating historical and cultural points of view. We address the question: "Is this a psychological (clinical) phenomena or a cultural-societal one?" The first author, Alan Fogel, has been doing research in the area of social and emotional development for more than 30 years. He worked at the University of Nagoya in 1983-84 as a Fulbright senior research scholar, where he conducted research on motherinfant communication and early childhood development with Professors Masatoshi Kawai and Hideo Kojima. During this period, Professor Fogel made several trips to visit the Research Center at Hokkaido University for discussions with Professors Kazuo Miyake and Shing-Jen Chen. Professor Fogel has made regular visits to Japan since that time. His perspective is that of an American developmental psychologist and educator who has some knowledge of Japanese history and culture.