In Japan, a hidden crisis is unfolding. Over a million people have retreated from society — some for months, others for years. They are known as hikikomori — a term that translates to being pulled inward or confined. Reporter Rebecca Rosman wanted to understand what drives this societal withdrawal. She met with a former hikikomori in Tokyo, who spent nearly a decade confined to his childhood bedroom.
We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving our website, theworld.org. Please fill out this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers will be anonymous). Thanks for your time!