Suzuki, Miko April2020-09-292020-09-292020https://hdl.handle.net/1794/2581731 pagesThis thesis is a literature review on hikikomori and the debate surrounding its classification. Primary focus will be on the compilation and analysis of research that pertains to hikikomori as either a Japanese culture-bound syndrome or a psychiatric disorder. I also raise a third possibility that hikikomori is a collectivist-culture bound syndrome. I analyze literature that provide evidence that hikikomori are found primarily in collectivist countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, and Spain. As well as studies that suggest collectivist cultural traits, such as interdependence, perpetuate the issue. In addition, Japanese cultural traits that bolster hikikomori such as haji/shame culture, academic pressure, and toxic work culture will also be explored.en-USHikikomoriPsychologyJapanHikikomoriJapanCultural PsychologySocial WithdrawalCollectivismJapanese CultureThesis/Dissertation