Hikikomori as a Culturally Situated Expression of Neurodivergence : A Two-Stage International Analysis

Aims Hikikomori, is behaviour characterised by prolonged social withdrawal, identified in 1990s Japan, and with increasing global recognition. Over two decades of research, the phenomenon remains clinically ambiguous, debate persists over whether hikikomori represents psychiatric disorder, behavioural response, or adaptive coping strategy. This review examines intersection between hikikomori and neurodivergent traits, focusing on autism spectrum characteristics, and ecological and cultural contexts that shape presentation. Method Two-stage literature review. Stage One comprised scoping review of diagnostic criteria for autism and behavioural features of hikikomori, identifying overlapping social communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and restricted interests. Stage Two employed targeted PRISMA-ScR approach, synthesising international literature across quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies. Findings followed three research questions: overlap between autism and hikikomori; Japanese environmental and societal triggers, and whether hikikomori can be understood as adaptive response. Results Results indicate nuanced convergence between autistic traits and hikikomori behaviours. Social communication difficulties, engagement in repetitive activities, and sensory sensitivities appear in both populations. Developmental trajectories differ; hikikomori emerge in adolescence/ early adulthood. Environmental pressures, including academic expectations, family dynamics, and cultural norms around conformity, exacerbate withdrawal behaviours. Adaptive perspectives suggest withdrawal is a protective mechanism, facilitating sensory regulation, psychological coping, and engagement in preferred activities. Pathological outcomes arise when isolation is prolonged/unsupported. Conclusion This review underscores important ecological and neurodiversity-informed frameworks in understanding hikikomori. Implications for practice include flexible support strategies, culturally sensitive assessment, recognising potential adaptive functions of withdrawal. Future research should be longitudinal, first-person experiences, and interaction between neurodivergence and environmental stressors across cultures.