Part 6/9:
In a collectivist culture like Japan's, where social conformity is paramount, the pressure to fulfill societal expectations can be overwhelming. Many individuals grow to inhabit roles that do not reflect their true selves, leading to an internal conflict that can manifest as unbearable pain.
This dissonance, the struggle of suppressing one’s authentic self while adhering to societal norms, can reach a tipping point.
The Consequences of Disappearance
While disappearing might seem like an escape, the aftermath for johatsu often entails severe consequences. Those who vanish frequently exist in a state of limbo, unable to maintain stable employment or even secure a permanent place to live, as they must avoid situations that require identification.