In recent years, the sentiment of “no marriage, no childbearing (for peace of mind)” has circulated online. While these emotional expressions may not accurately reflect the true intentions of young people regarding marriage and childbearing, they can influence their views on these issues and thus warrant attention.

Features of social media

The online discussions about “no marriage, no childbearing” do not truly capture the real desires of young people. Relying solely on online expressions of “fear of marriage” or “resistance to childbearing” to gauge public opinion can lead to misunderstandings or misjudgments about the actual situation.

Although China’s internet user base continues to grow and internet penetration increases, discussions on marriage and childbearing remain concentrated on social media platforms such as Weibo, Zhihu, and Xiaohongshu. However, the composition and distribution of social media users are not representative or comprehensive. Social media platforms tend to have stratified user bases, which means that the prevailing negative sentiments found online are biased and cannot be taken as a reliable indicator of young people’s real intentions.

Moreover, online opinions are often tainted by noise and distractions, with discussions on marriage and childbearing frequently fueled by misinformation, marketing tactics, and malicious comments. Unlike traditional media, online content is largely anonymous, offering a wide range of opinions—some of which are extreme or mixed—and is often emotionally charged. Social media platforms, through mechanisms such as hashtag aggregation, algorithmic recommendations, and media influence, easily amplify and spread discussions, often causing them to go viral through repeated rounds of affective contagion and resonance.

Behind online claims

The heated online debates reflect young people’s growing attention to marriage and childbearing issues, highlighting their considerations about the rights, responsibilities, and challenges associated with these topics. Issues such as intimate relationships, family dynamics, the value and risks of childbirth, child-rearing costs, social support, and cultural expectations all influence young people’s views on marriage and childbearing. While online discussions often express emotions, they also reveal genuine concerns about these issues. It is crucial, however, to be mindful of the emotional contagion and growing anxiety, as well as the role that some online influencers play in exacerbating these feelings to generate traffic and profits.

When sentiments against marriage and childbearing escalate, those with similar views are more likely to voice their opinions boldly. Young people who are uncertain about marriage or childbearing may feel pressured to align with the so-called “majority” opinion, while those with opposing views may choose to remain silent to avoid social isolation. This spiral effect of amplification can lead to a “silent spiral,” creating an online echo chamber with negative attitudes towards marriage and childbearing. As these interactions intensify, they can spread the fear of marriage and childbearing, exacerbating extreme opinions. The combination of social media algorithms and individuals’ selective exposure to information further deepens and generalizes this anxiety.

Significant impact of online opinion

Although online discourse against marriage and childbearing does not accurately mirror young people’s true intentions, such expressions of fear and even resistance towards marriage and childbearing can influence public opinion. This, in turn, shapes young people’s attitudes towards marriage and childbearing, weakening their willingness to pursue these life choices.

Currently, online information about marriage and childbearing is biased. Many comments overemphasize the costs and risks associated with marriage and childbirth, create gender antagonism, and heighten the conflict between marriage and childbearing on one hand, and career development, physical and mental health, and self-actualization on the other. Social support is often downplayed or even ignored. Long-term exposure to such a media environment can have a “cultivation” effect, unconsciously reinforcing negative perceptions of marriage and childbearing. This can lead to panic, rejection, and even aversion to these aspects of life.

Studies show that the social media environment is filled with vivid personal narratives, such as advice from those who have “been through it,” sharing stories about marital satisfaction and childbearing, and irrational emotional outbursts. Even occasional, prolonged exposure to such negative information can have a significant impact on attitudes towards marriage and childbearing.

For young people who have not yet made clear plans regarding marriage and parenthood, frequent exposure to content focusing on the risks and negative aspects of these issues can subtly influence their attitudes, leading them to adopt negative views and reduce their willingness to marry and have children. Even those who are initially open to marriage and parenthood may be misled by alarming statements, leading to anxiety and even fear about marriage and childbearing. This can deprive them of the opportunity to access professional advice and policy support, ultimately influencing their decisions regarding marriage and childbearing.

Jiang Qiaolei is an associate professor from the School of Journalism and Communication at Tsinghua University.