Japanese Youth “Inward Tendency”: Analysis of Surveys of Japan Youth Study Group

This presentation aims to discuss “inward tendency” of Japanese youth based on the analysis of social survey of 2012, and a secondary analysis of social surveys of 1992 and 2002, all of which were conducted by Japan Youth Study Group. The term “inward tendency” refers to Japanese youth attitudes that is more “domestic-oriented,” rather than “internationally-oriented” in character. However, up-to-date, its usage is not clear: it refers to both the decrease of youth travelling overseas, and the decrease of students studying overseas. Since the “inward tendency” of Japanese youth started to be considered a social issue in the beginning of 2000s, there is no previous studies, as well as statistical analysis, dealing with it. Therefore, I will review studies on youth in Japan in terms of methodology, examine some government surveys, and discuss which social factors contribute to “inward tendency.”
This presentation will attempt to address the following issues in dealing with the study of youth. Though in terms of methodology, it is important to make comparison with other age cohorts in order to understand the characteristics of youth (16-29 years of age), there was no such arrangements in previous surveys. Also in order to understand changes in youth attitudes, it is necessary to carry out repeated cross-sectional surveys. Though its necessity was pointed out, the age, period and cohort were not distinguished (Fujimura 1995). Furthermore, it is assumed that “inward tendency” correlates with other attitudes, such as intimacy, conservatism, and moral issues. The analysis of data makes it possible to clarify which factors correlate to “inward tendency.” And, consequently, it will be discussed that it is not sufficient to analyze the issue of “inward tendency” just as youth attitude, but it is also necessary to consider other macro factors and policies that have an impact on society.