Modern-Day Hermits: The Significant Impacts of Hikikomori and Other Social Groups in Japanese Society

https://kent-islandora.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/ugresearch/2018/2018all/37/thumbnail.jpgIn the twenty-first century, Japan has become a highly mobilized, developed, and social country. This research brings attention to the social withdrawals in Japanese society. These social groups have chosen to live their alternative lifestyles for various reasons. Hikikomori are typically teenagers or young adults who are reclusive and isolate themselves, usually not leaving their homes for six months or longer. NEET is slang, based on the acronym that describes them, as a person who is not in education, employment or training. A parasite single is somebody that chooses to remain living with their parents as single adults, to maintain a more laidback lifestyle. Freeters are either unemployed or work part-time jobs, mostly to avoid being a stereotypical salaryman. The core of this study investigates and hypothesizes the factors and social influences that cause people to exhibit these behaviors, as well as their serious impact on the Japanese workforce, economy, and declining birth rate. Research methods involved using databases to find professional research and publications related to the aforementioned social groups. The tremendous burdens placed upon younger people in Japan appear to be the driving force behind social withdrawal. Examples of this include the highly competitive college entrance exams, and the expectation that all younger people will soon become productive members of society. More details will be sited in regards to the statistics based on gender, class, and psychology of the social groups, as well as steps taken by the government and others to combat these conditions.