From narcissistic vulnerability to Hikikomori: depression and online-offline relational discrepancy among South Korean young adults.

INTRODUCTION

Social withdrawal (Hikikomori) has emerged as a significant public health concern among South Korean young adults. This study investigates how Hikikomori tendencies are associated with the interaction between internal psychological vulnerability and discrepancies between online and offline relational experiences.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional survey, data from 352 South Korean young adults (aged 19-34; 156 males, 44.3%) were analyzed using a moderated mediation model (PROCESS Macro Model 7). Measures included the Pathological Narcissism Inventory-Vulnerability scale (PNV), the 25-item Hikikomori Questionnaire, the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Impact Message Inventory-Generalized Other, which assesses interpersonal experience along the dimensions of control and affiliation.

RESULTS

Depression partially mediated the association between pathological narcissistic vulnerability and Hikikomori, and this indirect pathway was significantly moderated by online-offline relational discrepancies in both the control and affiliation dimensions, with control discrepancy showing the stronger effect.

DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that Hikikomori among individuals with elevated narcissistic vulnerability may be associated not simply with digital engagement but with discrepancies in interpersonal experience across relational contexts. Distinguishing how control and affiliation discrepancies are differentially associated with risk may inform more targeted approaches for supporting socially withdrawn young adults.