Characteristics Of Hikikomori Cases Aged 50-64 Receiving Financial And Daily Support From Older Parents In Japan

TL;DR

This study explores the characteristics of older hikikomori in Japan and how they differ from younger cases, emphasizing the need for community support and early intervention.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into the unique characteristics of hikikomori aged 50-64 and their support dynamics in Japan.

Findings

Hikikomori aged 50-64 were more likely to have work experience and less likely to have truancy compared to younger cases.

The 50-64 group had significantly longer social withdrawal durations but similar recovery times after support.

Many older hikikomori continued to live with their parents even after receiving support.

Abstract

This study examines the characteristics of hikikomori cases aged 50-64 in Japan by comparing them with cases aged 15-49. Japan has approximately 613,000 socially withdrawn individuals aged 40-64, with 91,000 never leaving home. Using data from a February 2024 survey of 1,735 municipal social welfare councils (response rate: 28.4%), we analyzed 312 cases where support led to observable changes. Among them, 81 cases (26.0%) involved individuals aged 50-64. Findings show that 78.8% were male, 61.5% had work experience, and 82.3% had an illness or disability. Before support, 85.6% lived with their family, and after support, 72.7% lived with their family. Even after support, 35.8% lived with their father and 55.1% lived with their mother. Compared to the 15-49 age group, those aged 50-64 were significantly more likely to have work experience (p < 0.001), less likely to have experienced truancy (p < 0.001), and less likely to live with family (p < 0.001). The duration of social withdrawal was significantly longer in the 50-64 group (17.3 years vs. 10.6 years, p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed in gender, education, illness, living arrangements, or family acceptance levels (e.g., their perception of hikikomori status). Despite longer withdrawal periods, post-support recovery time showed no significant differences between age groups. These results highlight the importance of early intervention through community outreach to foster change. Strengthening trust-based relationships and multi-organizational collaboration is crucial for supporting aging parents and their withdrawn adult children in reconnecting with society.