ShortHand: Hikikomori - Japan’s Modern Day Hermits

ShortHand: Hikikomori - Japan’s Modern Day Hermits

September 4, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 235

About this episode

This episode investigates the phenomenon of Hikikomori, or modern-day hermits, in Japan and the cultural factors contributing to their social isolation.

Societal recluses exist in every culture. But in Japan, the number of permanent shut-ins has risen to incredible levels. There are estimated to be around one million Hikikomori, or ‘modern-day hermits’, in Japan today, and the term has even been proposed to be included in the DSM-5. So what is it about Japanese culture that causes so many young men to never leave the house? Press play to join us in investigating why so many Japanese citizens choose to live their lives in almost complete social isolation. -- Patreon - Ad-free & Bonus Episodes YouTube - Full-length Video Episodes TikTok / Instagram

People in this episode

Host: RedHanded

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: DSM-5

Places: Japan

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