Key result
Hikikomori syndrome and avoidant traits linked to severe social withdrawal and sexual offenses in two cases.
Why the study?
Hikikomori was initially considered a culture-bound syndrome, but evidence suggests it is a global phenomenon where affected individuals often contact healthcare through legal interventions.
Case Report (n=2)
This report highlights the global presence of hikikomori and its complex intersection with psychiatric comorbidities, digital media use, and sexual offenses.
Reports hikikomori with sexual offenses outside Japan; hypothesis-generating and should not yet change practice.
Hikikomori, first identified in Japan, refers to individuals who withdraw from society and confine themselves to their homes, often remaining isolated in their bedrooms. Those affected typically disengage from education, employment, and daily activities, leading to significant functional impairment. While initially considered a culture-bound syndrome, growing evidence in recent decades suggests that hikikomori is a global phenomenon. Individuals with this condition often come into contact with healthcare systems through legal interventions. Here, we present two cases of Portuguese males with hikikomori syndrome who have committed sexual crimes.
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Ferreira et al. (2025) conducted a case report in Hikikomori syndrome (n=2). Two Portuguese males with hikikomori syndrome and avoidant personality traits presented with severe social withdrawal and were evaluated following legal interventions for sexual offenses.
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