Brain Sciences (Jul 2023)

Autism Spectrum, Hikikomori Syndrome and Internet Gaming Disorder: Is There a Link?

  • Liliana Dell’Osso,
  • Giulia Amatori,
  • Dario Muti,
  • Federico Giovannoni,
  • Francesca Parri,
  • Miriam Violi,
  • Ivan Mirko Cremone,
  • Barbara Carpita

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci13071116
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 7
p. 1116

Abstract

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The aim of this study is to review the available literature investigating the relationship between hikikomori, a pathological condition characterized by severe social withdrawal or isolation, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Studies on the relationship between ASD and IGD have found significant positive correlations between these two conditions. Individuals with ASD would appear to be at risk of developing a problematic use of the Internet, which, to the right extent, would represent a useful tool for social interaction and cognitive development. Even subjects with hikikomori, in whom rarefied interpersonal relationships and social isolation could be balanced by the use of online connections, appear to be at high risk of developing IGD. On the other hand, the finding of significant autistic traits in populations with hikikomori could lead to considering this psychopathological condition as a particular presentation of autism spectrum, a hypothesis that requires further investigation.

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