J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2021 Nov;60(4):284-290. 10.4306/jknpa.2021.60.4.284.

The Stigma Against Social Withdrawal Syndrome (Hikikomori) Among Mental Health Practitioners

• Kang J
• Chang H
• Hwang SJ
• An JH
• Kim MH
• Hong JP

• KMID: 2523098
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2021.60.4.284

Abstract

Objectives
This study examined the stigma against social withdrawal syndrome (hikikomori) among mental health practitioners, and compared levels of stigma against social withdrawal syndrome versus mental illness.
Methods
The participants were 133 mental health practitioners (28 males, 105 females) with experience of social withdrawal syndrome that self-reported levels of stigma against social withdrawal syndrome and mental illness.
Results
Stigma against social withdrawal syndrome was generally significantly lower than stigma against mental illness. However, mental health practitioners tended to agree they would be reluctant to become personally involved with a person that had experienced social withdrawal syndrome (e.g., dating, hiring). Levels of stigma also differed across mental health occupations.
Conclusion
This study suggests although mental health practitioners may generally have less negative attitudes toward social withdrawal syndrome in the context of mental illness, that they may also have some reservations about personal interactions with individuals with social withdrawal syndrome.

Keyword

Social withdrawal syndrome (Hikikomori); Mental illness; Stigma; Mental health practitioners