Cultural strategies to prevent Hikikomori social withdrawal

The article explores how cultural institutions can help prevent Hikikomori, a phenomenon of extreme social withdrawal primarily affecting adolescents aged 14–30. A recent study by CNR and Gruppo Abele estimates over 8,000 cases in Lombardy alone, likely undercounted. While discussions often focus on technology overuse and intervention, prevention through culture is underexplored. The author argues that cultural spaces can foster diverse social groups beyond school and family, reducing the risk that alienation from one group becomes total isolation. Hikikomori often maintain online relationships via games and Discord, suggesting a preference for digital interaction. Cultural offerings like music schools, sports, theater, gaming rooms in libraries, and creative workshops (design, comics, 3D printing) can help form interest-based communities. Early detection of withdrawal becomes easier when a child stops attending multiple activities. The article emphasizes that such cultural services should be normal, not just remedial, and align with education and psychological support.