The psychological effects of taking in “Shikohin”: A cross-sectional exploratory study

This study explores the psychological effects that Japanese people experience when consuming their “Shikohin”, such as alcohol, tea, coffee, and tobacco. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 542 people, from 20-to 69-year-old, who regularly consumed any one of “Shikohin” in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba. The participants responded to an anonymous questionnaire concerning the consumption patterns of their “Shikohin” and the psychological effects that they experienced in taking in their “Shikohin”. Results obtained using the K-J methods showed three common psychological effects in each “Shikohin”. These effects included an increase in relaxation response, the promotion of social relationships, and an increase in positive mood. Our findings suggest that Japanese people may get some common effects through consumption of different “Shikohin”.