Prevalence of the Hikikomori Syndrome in the Context of Internet Addictive Behaviour Among Primary School Pupils in the Slovak Republic

Hikikomori phenomenon has been theoretically founded and empirically studied in several countries such as Japan, South Korea, mainland China, Taiwan, Thailand, Bangladesh, Australia, the United States, Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Poland, Iran, and the United States. Previous empirical studies abroad indicate significant differences in the incidence of hikikomori syndrome in the case of boys. The study examined the phenomenon of hikikomori syndrome that has not yet been studied in Slovakia. The aim of the study is to map the prevalence and analyze the hikikomori syndrome phenomenon in primary school students. The sample consisted of 2 767 respondents with an average age of 12.68 years. We found a statistically significant difference in the prevalence rate of the hikikomori syndrome among boys and girls. Hikikomori syndrome is more common among girls than among boys. Furthermore, a positive correlation was found between drug use and hikikomori syndrome in both sexes. In relation to gender differences, our findings have broadened the theoretical foundations of hikikomori syndrome and present a starting point for designing preventive educational activities for professionals working with children and youth.