Measuring the Quality of Life for Individuals With Prolonged Social Withdrawal (Hikikomori)

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop a quality of life scale for hikikomori (QOL-H), measuring the subjective quality of life (QOL) of individuals with hikikomori, and confirming its reliability and validity. METHODS: The characteristics of the scale were examined using item response theory. Data were collected from 99 people with hikikomori, 100 people who had experienced hikikomori in the past, and 198 people who had not experienced hikikomori, to develop the scale, examine its reliability, validity, and characteristics. For convergent validity, the correlation coefficients between QOL-H and social interaction behaviors, hikikomori characteristics, depressive symptoms, subjective happiness, and difficulty in social participation were calculated. RESULTS: Good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity were confirmed for the QOL-H. Furthermore, significant differences in scores among all groups confirmed adequate criterion-related validity. Total information function indicated a high measurement accuracy when QOL was average or slightly high. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that QOL-H can be an appropriate measure of QOL for individuals with hikikomori.