A Resurgence of Emphasis on Family Background: Changes of Mate Selection Criteria in Urban China

• In Event: 3204 - Student Forum Session: Partnership and Parenting among Asian Families

Abstract

In China, where marriage remains universal and house ownership is regarded as a prerequisite for marriage, mate selection criteria may be affected by its soaring real estate market after 2008. To examine such criteria and their changes, I use content analysis to compare the offers and demands of personal advertisements placed in 2008 (n = 1202) and 2017 (n = 252) on an online dating platform. The offers and demands are grouped into three categories (3Es): evolutionary, economic and emotional attributes, being in correspondence with main functions performed by family. I find that (a) Chinese singles’ preference for evolutionary traits were stable and consistent, with men emphasizing looks and women emphasizing height; (b) both men and women were demanding on emotional compatibility and commitment, being cautious with one’s upbringing and previous relationships; and (c) the most salient changes occurred in economic attributes, with a resurgence of emphasis on family background despite of the dominant educational assortative mating. Meanwhile, men were increasingly choosy about partners’ economic status; women increasingly show their attractiveness by offering financial resources. These findings indicate that in the context of rising house price, Chinese singles seek for a reciprocal, secure and stable relationship in the marriage market.

Author

• Yuchun Gao, Shanghai University