Inclusion and Exclusion in the Hikikomori Phenomenon

: A Conceptual Analysis of the Hikikomori Tendency

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the usage of the concept of the Hikikomori（social withdrawal）tendency, which is not necessarily identified as Hikikomori, al- though it is accompanied by Hikikomori as a state. This paper aims to return to the Hikikomori phenomenon and clarify how it should be described in its diver- sification. A conceptual analysis, based on ethnomethodology, is employed as the ana- lytical method. Conceptual analysis is a plan of action regarding the description and analysis of how categorical concepts are referred to and practically（strate- gically）used by actors. The main analysis subjects are articles from the Yomiuri Shimbun and the Asahi Shimbun（Japanese newspapers）. In addition to these, descriptions and communications by experts and the parties concerned are also referred to. Consequently, the following three points were found: ⑴ The Hikikomori ten- dency and the explanation for its reason are inseparable; ⑵ There are ambiva- lent aspects; a Hikikomori tendency does not cause trouble for others（Logic A）, and a Hikikomori tendency causes trouble for others and society（Logic B）; ⑶ There exists a double exclusion scheme in which the foregrounding of Logic A conceals Logic B（ambiguating exclusion）. From the above, particularly, because Logic A is inseparable from the dis- course on social isolation, we should refrain from completely identifying the Hikikomori phenomenon with social isolation. The differences within the cate- gory of Hikikomori should be thoroughly described.