Viral WeChat Records Expose Labour Law Violations and ‘996’ Culture in Chinese Companies

 

Source from Tencent

Recently, a conversation in a WeChat group has gone viral in China, sparking discussions about labour rights and worker protection. The chat records revolve around an employee confronting his boss over overtime work during a national holiday. While the location and details of the incident are unclear, the conversation highlights labour law violations and the “996” culture of overworking in many Chinese companies.

The incident occurred in a WeChat group with 400 members discussing a project team’s overtime work during a national holiday. The employee voiced their concerns about being asked to work overtime without pay or rest, which led to a confrontation with their boss. The chat records were leaked and quickly spread on social media, with many people expressing outrage over the company’s actions.

The term “996” refers to working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week, which has become increasingly prevalent in China’s tech industry. This culture of overworking has been criticised for exploiting workers and damaging their physical and mental health. Despite China being a socialist country that protects worker interests, it still faces labour exploitation and abuse issues.

Many companies in China have distanced themselves from the incident, claiming that they do not condone such behaviour. However, the prevalence of the “996” culture suggests that the problem is more widespread than some may acknowledge. As more and more people become aware of these labour law violations and overworking practices, pressure will likely mount on companies to take action to improve working conditions.

The incident has also raised questions about worker oppression and dire living conditions in China. Some have speculated that the incident may have occurred in the US or Taiwan, where similar worker exploitation and abuse issues have been reported. However, without more information about the incident, it is impossible to say where it occurred.

Despite the uncertainty around the incident’s location and details, the conversation has sparked essential discussions about labour rights and worker protection. The Chinese government has recently introduced new labour laws to protect workers’ rights, but it is clear that more is needed to enforce these laws and ensure that workers are not exploited.

In conclusion, the viral WeChat records have spotlighted labour law violations and the “996” culture of overworking in many Chinese companies. While the incident’s location and details are unclear, the conversation has sparked meaningful discussions about worker rights and protection. It is essential that companies take action to improve working conditions and comply with labour laws and that the Chinese government enforces these laws to ensure that workers are not exploited or abused.

References:

“WeChat conversation about an employee confronting his boss over overtime work goes viral,” Global Times, 23 March 2023, https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202203/1231787.shtml.

“What Is the 996 Work Schedule in China and Why Are Workers Protesting It?” The New York Times, 15 April 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/15/world/asia/china-tech-workers-996.html.

“China’s government steps up protection for workers’ rights,” South China Morning Post, 6 January 2022， https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3166015/chinas-government-steps-protection-workers-rights.

“China’s ‘996’ overtime culture sparks online backlash,” BBC News, 16 April 2019, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-47951137.
“Labour Law in China: An Introduction,” China Briefing, 16 December 2020

The Curious Case of a Man with 8 Divorce Certificates and 9 Marriage Certificates: Is It His Fault or Theirs?

 

Recently, a video on Chinese social media platforms showed a 27-year-old man from Shanghai displaying his 17 certificates, including 8 divorce certificates and 9 marriage certificates. In the video, the man expressed his confusion over whether his fault or his partners' led to many failed marriages. The video sparked a lot of discussion among netizens, with many questioning the man's belief in love and relationships. In this article, we will explore the case of the man with 8 divorce certificates and 9 marriage certificates and try to understand the possible reasons behind his tumultuous love life.

First and foremost, it is essential to note that in China, there is no legal limit on the number of times a person can get married or divorced as long as they are not committing bigamy. According to the Chinese Marriage Law, a person can only match one person. If a person wants to remarry, they must first obtain a divorce certificate to end their previous marriage. Therefore, the man in question did not break any law by getting married and divorced so many times.

However, this raises the question of why the man has been in so many failed marriages at such a young age. One possible explanation could be his approach to relationships. He may jump into relationships too quickly without getting to know his partner well enough, leading to a breakdown in communication and misunderstandings. This is a common issue in many relationships, especially among young people who may need more experience handling conflicts and challenges.

Another possible explanation is that the man has unrealistic expectations of his partners and relationships. It is common for people to have a particular ideal of a perfect relationship, but it is essential to understand that relationships take work and compromise. If the man is not willing to put in the effort to maintain a healthy and loving relationship, it is unlikely that he will find long-term happiness with anyone.

It is also possible that the man still needs to fully process the emotional impact of his previous failed relationships before jumping into another one. Divorce can be a traumatic experience for many people, and it takes time and effort to heal and move on from the pain and disappointment of a failed marriage. If the man is not taking the time to reflect on his past relationships and learn from his mistakes, he is likely to repeat them in future relationships.

Furthermore, it is essential to consider his partners' role in the breakdown of their marriages. It takes two people to make a relationship work, and if one person is not fully committed or is not putting in the effort, it can lead to a breakdown in the relationship. It is possible that the man's partners needed to be fully invested in the relationship or had their own issues contributing to the study.

In conclusion, the case of the man with 8 divorce certificates and 9 marriage certificates is a complex one with no easy answers. It is possible that the man's approach to relationships, unrealistic expectations, failure to process emotional trauma, and his partners' contributions all played a role in his tumultuous love life. It is essential for anyone entering into a relationship to take the time to get to know their partner, communicate effectively, and work together to build a healthy and loving relationship.

Sources:

"Chinese Man Shows Off 17 Certificates: 9 Marriage, 8 Divorce". The Straits Times. 30 March 2023. https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/chinese-man-shows-off-17-certificates-9-marriage-8-divorce

In China, who pays for dating expenses?

 

Introduction

Entering college brings many opportunities for learning, personal growth, and social interaction. It also opens the door to the possibility of romantic relationships. College couples often enjoy spending time together, going on dates, and celebrating special occasions. However, dating comes with a cost, and this can be a significant financial burden for students with no income. In many cases, one partner may end up paying more than the other, leading to questions about the fairness of this arrangement. This article will examine whether it is reasonable for male students to bear the bulk of dating expenses and whether adopting an equal split (AA) approach to paying for dating expenses is necessary.

Part 1: Who Pays for Dating Expenses?

According to a survey conducted by China Youth Daily, over 80% of college students' dating expenses are paid by their parents, with just over 40% of couples’ costs being covered by male partners. Some argue that this is due to societal expectations that men should show their masculinity and financial prowess by paying for dates. Others contend that some women feel entitled to have their male partners pay for their expenses, claiming that if they can support themselves, they do not need a boyfriend.

It is essential to note that dating expenses can add up over time and may become a significant burden for male students, who are expected to pay for most expenses. This can lead to financial stress and affect the relationship’s dynamic, as the partner paying for everything may feel resentful or unappreciated. In contrast, the other partner may feel guilty or inadequate for not being able to contribute financially.

Part 2: The Pros and Cons of the AA System for Dating Expenses

The AA (equal split) system has become increasingly popular in recent years as it ensures that both partners are equally responsible for covering the costs of their dates. This approach can eliminate financial stress and provide a sense of fairness in the relationship. It also promotes financial responsibility, as both partners are accountable for their expenses.

However, the AA system may not always be practical, especially if one partner earns significantly less than the other. For instance, if one partner has a part-time job while the other has a full-time job, it may be challenging to split expenses equally. Additionally, the AA system may not account for the variations in the costs of different activities. For example, a night out at a fancy restaurant may cost significantly more than a movie date, but the AA system would require both partners to pay the same amount.

Part 3: Finding a Middle Ground

Finding a middle ground that works for both partners when paying for dating expenses is crucial. This could involve setting a budget for dates or alternating who pays for each date. It is also essential to have open communication and discuss each other’s expectations and financial capabilities.

Additionally, it is essential to recognize that money should not be the sole factor in determining the quality of a relationship. While dating expenses can add up, they should not be the only measure of love and commitment. Partners should focus on building healthy and meaningful relationships beyond materialistic things.

Part 4: Supporting Arguments

The Benefits and Drawbacks of AA System for Dating Expenses https://www.deccanherald.com/specials/insight/pros-and-cons-of-the-equal-split-system-for-dating-expenses-935776.html

This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the AA system for dating expenses. It highlights the benefits of fairness and financial responsibility and the drawbacks of the system’s potential impracticality and cost variations.

Why Couples Should Split the Bill on Dates https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/love-sex/relationships/a25913803/couples-split-the-bill-on-dates/

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The Impact of Algorithms on Chinese Gig Workers in the Platform Economy

 

As the platform economy grows, gig workers such as delivery riders and ride-hailing drivers have become emerging professionals in the internet age. They work tirelessly, navigating through busy city traffic to complete their tasks. However, algorithms are increasingly limiting their time. Customer ratings intensify the conflict between consumers and gig workers, making the platform economy even more complex and binding delivery riders more tightly.

Can waiting an extra 5 minutes solve the dilemma for delivery riders? How can we restrain the algorithms that cause harm to gig workers? Where do the rights of gig workers in emerging industries lie?

The platform economy is characterised by matching supply and demand through digital platforms, which rely heavily on algorithms to optimise their operations. These algorithms, however, have limitations and can only consider some of the complex variables that come with human decision-making. This can lead to unintended consequences, especially in gig work.

One of the critical challenges that gig workers face is the time limit imposed by algorithms. In the delivery industry, algorithms set tight delivery schedules, making it difficult for riders to take breaks or rest. They must complete a certain number of orders within a specified time frame, which can be highly stressful and physically demanding. At the same time, algorithms prioritise customer ratings, often used to measure rider performance. This creates a situation where riders are forced to prioritise customer satisfaction over their own well-being, leading to a misalignment of incentives between the platform, riders, and customers.

Moreover, customer ratings and reviews can create intense and unfair pressure on delivery riders. Many customers are impatient and intolerant of any delay, leading to poor ratings and negative feedback, even when the delay is beyond the rider’s control. This can lead to a significant impact on the rider’s earnings, as their ratings and reviews determine whether they receive future orders or not. The system creates a high-stress environment that can lead to burnout and adverse mental health effects for riders.

As consumers, we may feel frustrated when delivery riders take longer than expected to deliver our food. It is tempting to blame the rider and give them a poor rating. However, it is essential to recognise that these ratings significantly impact the rider’s income and working conditions. Offering a low rating may seem like an appropriate response to a delay, but it can cause significant harm to the rider’s livelihood.

The algorithm-driven platform economy has created a complex and challenging work environment for gig workers. However, it is essential to recognise that gig work has always been difficult, even before the advent of digital platforms. The gig economy has grown in response to changes in the labour market, including the rise of part-time and flexible work and the increasing demand for low-cost services. However, the platform economy has exacerbated the challenges faced by gig workers, creating new forms of exploitation and precarity.

To address these challenges, there is a need for a more holistic approach to gig work. Platforms must recognise their responsibility to protect gig workers’ rights and ensure their algorithms do not cause harm. There is also a need for stronger legal protections for gig workers, including the right to form unions and collective bargaining. Finally, consumers must recognise their role in supporting gig workers and not contribute to the toxic rating culture.

In conclusion, the impact of algorithms on gig workers in the platform economy is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. While algorithms can optimize the operations of digital platforms, they can also create harm to gig workers.

算法对互联网零工的影响

随着互联网经济的发展，外卖员、网约车司机等成为互联网时代的新兴从业者。他们争分夺秒，在城市车水马龙中穿梭。然而，算法限制了他们的时间，评价好坏也加剧了消费者和零工之间的冲突，使得互联网经济变得更加复杂，更加绑缚外卖员。

多等5分钟能否解决外卖员困境？如何制约对零工造成伤害的算法？新兴行业从业者的权益应该如何保障？

互联网平台经济通过数字化平台来匹配供需，其运营很大程度上依赖于算法的优化。然而，这些算法也存在局限性，无法考虑到所有与人类决策有关的复杂变量。特别是在零工经济的背景下，这可能会导致意想不到的后果。

零工面临的一个主要挑战是算法所限定的时间。在外卖行业中，算法设定了紧张的配送时间表，使得外卖员难以休息或休息不足。他们必须在规定的时间内完成一定数量的订单，这会带来极大的压力和身体上的负担。同时，算法优先考虑客户评价，这通常被用作衡量外卖员绩效的指标。这就导致外卖员被迫将客户满意度置于自己的健康之上，从而导致平台、外卖员和消费者之间的激励错位。

此外，客户的评价和评论也会对外卖员产生巨大的压力和不公平的影响。许多客户心急，容不得任何耽搁，即使外卖员的延迟超出了其控制范围，也会导致差评和负面反馈。这可能会对外卖员的收入产生重大影响，因为他们的评价和评论决定了他们是否能够接到未来的订单。这种评价体系创造了一种高压的工作环境，可能导致外卖员疲劳不堪和负面的心理影响。

作为消费者，尽管我们也受到算法的影响，但我们应该认识到零工经济中的劳动者也在受到这种影响。我们需要意识到，他们不仅是服务的提供者，更是一群有权益和尊严的人类。因此，我们应该尝试采取措施来保护他们的权益，并为他们提供更好的工作环境。

一些可能的解决方案包括，扩大配送时间的设定范围，以便为零工提供更多的休息时间；制定更加合理的绩效评价机制，避免消费者的不公平评价对零工产生负面影响；增加透明度，公开平台算法的运作机制，促进平台工作环境的透明和公正。同时，政府也应该考虑出台法规，保护零工的劳动权益。

在这个日益数字化的时代，算法对于平台经济和零工经济的影响不可避免。我们需要承认这一点，并寻求平衡，以确保所有参与者的权益得到保护和尊重。

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The Shocking Truth Behind Guizhou’s HIV-Infected Prostitution Ring

Uncovering the Dark World of Prostitution and STDs in China’s Grey Market

As news of the “HIV-infected prostitute” incident in Guizhou continues to unfold, it is becoming increasingly shocking, tearing apart the veil of shame for those involved.

The People’s Court of Libo County in Guizhou Province recently concluded a case in which Zhang, a carrier of the HIV virus, engaged in sexual activity with Wei for 30 yuan, despite knowing her condition. Zhang was apprehended by the police and administratively detained for ten days.

In April 2020, Zhang engaged in sexual activity with Yang for the same amount and was similarly caught and fined 500 yuan by the police. The public prosecution accused Zhang of spreading sexually transmitted diseases, and the court ultimately convicted her of the crime, sentencing her to ten months in prison and a 1,000 yuan fine. The confiscated illegal gains of 60 yuan were also seized and handed over to the state treasury by law.

So, what is the crime of spreading sexually transmitted diseases? It refers to knowingly engaging in prostitution or soliciting prostitution while having severe sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and gonorrhoea.

The punishment for spreading sexually transmitted diseases is imprisonment for up to five years, detention or control, and a fine.

Zhang knew she was a carrier of the HIV virus but still engaged in prostitution repeatedly. She committed the crime intentionally. Some may argue that Zhang engaged in prostitution knowing she was a carrier of the HIV virus but did not infect anyone else. Does her behaviour still constitute a crime of spreading sexually transmitted diseases?

The answer is yes because the fact that the act of spreading sexually transmitted diseases does not actually cause others to suffer from serious sexually transmitted diseases does not affect the establishment of the offence.

Prostitution is a frequently prohibited activity that has spawned a grey industry chain. The traces of prostitution can be seen everywhere, in hotels, alleyways, and guesthouses, among other places.

We might see the following warning message in a hotel room: “Cherish life; stay away from pornography, gambling, and drugs.” Why do such warnings appear in hotel rooms? It is because prostitution is prevalent and accessible to occur in hotels.

Those who have stayed in a hotel may be familiar with this phenomenon: at night, someone will stuff small cards under the room door with various images of beautiful women, such as hot beauties, pure beauties, and mature women, among others. Some advertising slogans entice male customers, so male customers should exercise self-discipline and self-control and avoid temptation. Otherwise, they may contract a disease and ruin their lives.

In the women’s restroom on a college campus, we might see small ads like “High-paying part-time jobs, please contact xxx,” “Colorless services, high-paying part-time jobs, monthly income of over ten thousand,” “High-paying part-time jobs, female students are preferred, monthly income of over ten thousand,” and so on. Why do these ads appear in the women’s restroom on a college campus? Because those who post advertisements understand the needs of college students. Freshmen do not have a source of income, and many students are reluctant to ask their families for money. Therefore, students prefer to find part-time jobs to earn a living.

Seeing such advertisements, it is difficult to resist the curiosity of what kind of part-time job can earn over ten thousand yuan a month. Under the impetus of this curiosity, one may gradually fall into the abyss and destroy their life.

Citations:

• “贵州“艾滋病卖淫女”事件，越深挖越吓人，撕碎了谁的遮羞布” (普法小小课堂)
• “China’s fight against the spread of sexually transmitted infections and HIV” (WHO)
• “Sex workers’ vulnerability to HIV, hepatitis B and sexually transmitted infection in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis” (PubMed)

Links:

• https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/3jkfXfdVq-VeplhjZiGmWw
• https://www.who.int/china/news/detail/09-12-2019-china-s-fight-against-the-spread-of-sexually-transmitted-infections-and-hiv
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25787425/

Chinese girl who was beaten was forced to kneel and begged the attackers for mercy — When will bullying stop?

 

Recently, a bullying incident in Hainan has caused widespread outrage among netizens. In the video, a beaten girl was forced to kneel and begged the attackers for mercy. We thought these attackers would be severely punished, but the outcome disappointed us. The attackers cannot be punished harshly because they are under 14, becoming their “get-out-of-jail-free card.”

On March 24, the police mediation result showed that both parties had gathered multiple people to assault each other several times. The rumour that the girl was illegally detained was untrue. However, the parties and their families disagree with this investigation result. So, what is the actual situation?

The victim, Xiaozhu, who was beaten in the incident, said in an interview with the media that the attackers had beaten her for various reasons, such as asking for money to buy breakfast or cigarettes. This time, the reason was that they didn’t like her.

Moreover, the investigation found that multiple people could testify that the attackers had assaulted Xiaozhu on the roadside, in the restroom, and by the ditch.

However, what about the police’s announcement that both parties repeatedly gathered many people to beat each other due to a verbal dispute?

Xiaozhu’s cousin said that Xiaozhu returned to her grandmother’s house after being beaten on the 16th, and because she was afraid to go home, she proposed to escort Xiaozhu home. On the way, they met the attacker, Song, and gathered some friends to beat him while filming a video. Xiaozhu did hit Song in the video, and her cousin was also fined by the police afterwards.

According to Xiaozhu’s cousin, this was only a chance encounter that happened once, different from the police’s announcement of multiple gatherings and beatings by many people.

The author believes that although Xiaozhu’s cousin’s behaviour is illegal, it is reasonable to think about it. If most people knew that their relatives were subjected to such inhumane beatings, how could they endure it? From the punishment of the attackers given by the police, I think what she did is worth it.

Regarding the rumour that Xiaozhu was illegally detained for five days, what are the explanation for her five-day disappearance and multiple bruises when she appeared again at the station in Jialai Town?

Xiaozhu’s teacher told her family that she was missing on the 12th, and her father did not get through her phone until she appeared at the Jialai Town station on the 16th.

During Xiaozhu’s disappearance, her father tried to find her by going out and asking people around him, but he couldn’t find her. Xiaozhu’s phone was always turned off, and there was no news from her during the five-day disappearance. How should we explain this? Was she illegally detained?

When CCTV tried to interview the school, the police station, the public security bureau, and the propaganda department with many questions, they were all refused.

There are still too many questions and details waiting for official explanations. We hope that the relevant departments can explain as soon as possible and that the truth of this incident can be revealed.

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Hong Kong Youth Income and Consumption Survey: What is a Decent Life

 

A recent study conducted by the Policy Research Institute, the Center for Culture, and the Development Center at Lingnan University, in collaboration with Oxfam Hong Kong, focused on young people’s employment and consumption situation and published its findings. The study surveyed young people aged 18 to 29 with work experience and a monthly income of less than HKD 20,000.

The study found that the monthly average living expenses of the respondents were HKD 16,789, with the highest proportion of spending on food, accounting for 40.7% of the total. In addition, the study found that transportation, communication, and leisure expenses accounted for 27% of the total. The study also found that the majority of respondents lived with their parents and that their housing expenses accounted for only 19.97% of their total expenses.

To maintain their current standard of living, young workers need to earn an average hourly wage of HKD 80.72, assuming they work 26 days a month and 8 hours a day. However, the current statutory minimum wage in Hong Kong is only HKD 40, and the median hourly wage for employees in the city is HKD 75.7. Even the monthly average income of young people aged 20–24 with a bachelor’s degree in 2019 was only HKD 18,000, which means that “living paycheck to paycheck” is a common scenario for most young people in Hong Kong.

The low minimum wage in Hong Kong also drew sharp criticism from the interviewees. They pointed out that the current minimum wage cannot meet the basic needs of workers and does not encourage people to work hard.

Hong Kong’s minimum wage lags far behind other developed areas and countries in Asia. For example, the minimum hourly wage in Taiwan was raised to NT$176 (about HKD 45.8) in January 2023, which benefits about 57,000 workers, accounting for about 20% of those covered by the minimum wage. In South Korea, the minimum hourly wage will be raised to KRW 9,620 (about HKD 59.5) in 2023, benefiting about 3.4 million workers, or 11.9% of the labour force. In addition, the average hourly wage in Japan was adjusted to JPY 961 (about HKD 57.2) in October 2022.

The low minimum wage has caused financial difficulties for young workers in Hong Kong. While they are not struggling to make ends meet, they cannot afford to plan for their future, including saying “no” to jobs they do not like or having no growth prospects.

In conclusion, the study showed that young people in Hong Kong face significant challenges in achieving a decent life. The minimum wage in Hong Kong lags behind other developed areas and countries in Asia, and it needs to meet the basic needs of workers. The situation has led many young people to face financial difficulties and prevented them from planning their future. To address this problem, the government should consider raising the minimum wage to a level that can cover the basic needs of workers, and create more job opportunities for young people.

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The Concept of the “work wife” in Chinese society

 

In China, the concept of the “work wife” has become a popular topic of discussion in recent years. This term is used to describe a close, platonic relationship between a male and a female colleague that is akin to a marriage. The two individuals share a strong bond that is often characterised by a high degree of emotional intimacy and mutual support. However, this relationship is purely platonic, and there is no romantic or sexual element to it.

The concept of a work wife in China has its roots in traditional gender roles and expectations. Historically, women were expected to be the primary caregivers and homemakers, while men were expected to be the breadwinners. However, with the rise of women in the workforce in China, many women are now able to balance both work and family responsibilities. This has led to the development of the work wife phenomenon, where female colleagues offer emotional support and companionship to their male counterparts in the workplace.

In this article, we will explore the concept of the work wife in China in greater detail, looking at the historical and cultural context that gave rise to it, the benefits and drawbacks of this kind of relationship, and the role it plays in contemporary Chinese society.

Historical and cultural context

The concept of the work wife in China can be traced back to traditional gender roles and expectations. Historically, women in China were expected to be the primary caregivers and homemakers, responsible for raising children and taking care of the household. Men, on the other hand, were expected to be the breadwinners, providing for their families and working outside the home.

However, with the rise of women in the workforce in China, these gender roles and expectations have shifted. Many women are now able to balance work and family responsibilities, taking on roles and responsibilities that were once the exclusive domain of men. This has led to a blurring of traditional gender roles, with women playing a more active role in the workplace and men taking on more domestic responsibilities.

The concept of the work wife in China emerged as a result of these changing gender roles and expectations. Male colleagues who were used to having a wife at home to provide emotional support and companionship found themselves lacking in this area when they spent long hours at work. Female colleagues were able to fill this emotional void, offering companionship and support to their male counterparts.

Benefits of the work wife relationship

The work wife relationship offers several benefits to both parties involved. For men, having a work wife provides emotional support and companionship, which can be particularly important in high-stress work environments. It also allows them to maintain a work-life balance by having someone to talk to and confide in during work hours.

For women, the work wife relationship offers a chance to form close bonds with male colleagues in a platonic, non-threatening way. It also allows them to gain a deeper understanding of their male colleagues’ perspectives, which can be beneficial in the workplace.

The work wife relationship can also benefit the workplace as a whole by fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among colleagues. When colleagues feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and productive in their work.

Drawbacks of the work wife relationship

Despite the benefits, the work wife relationship also has its drawbacks. One potential issue is that it can be seen as reinforcing traditional gender roles and expectations, with women taking on the emotional labour of providing support and companionship to their male colleagues. This can lead to a sense of resentment and frustration among female colleagues who feel that they are expected to take on this role.

Another potential issue is that the work wife relationship can be seen as a form of emotional infidelity, particularly if one or both parties are in a romantic relationship outside of work. This can lead to jealousy and conflict, both in the workplace and outside of work.

The work wife relationship can also be problematic if it creates a sense of exclusivity or cliquishness within the workplace. If a male colleague is perceived to have a closer relationship with his work wife than with other colleagues, this can lead to feelings of exclusion and tension within the team.

Additionally, there is a risk that the work wife relationship can become too emotionally intense, leading to a blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. This can be particularly problematic if one or both parties are struggling with personal issues or if the relationship becomes overly dependent on one another.

Contemporary context and changing attitudes

As China continues to modernise and shift away from traditional gender roles and expectations, attitudes towards the work wife relationship are also changing. While the concept is still widely discussed and practiced in many workplaces, there is a growing recognition that it can reinforce gender stereotypes and expectations.

There is also a growing awareness of the potential risks associated with the work wife relationship, particularly in the era of the #MeToo movement. Many workplaces are now implementing policies and guidelines to ensure that these relationships are kept professional and respectful, and that boundaries are maintained between personal and professional life.

At the same time, however, there is also a growing recognition of the importance of emotional support and companionship in the workplace. Many companies are now offering employee assistance programmes and mental health support services to help employees cope with the stresses and challenges of modern work life.

Conclusion

The concept of the work wife in China offers a fascinating insight into the changing gender roles and expectations in Chinese society. While the relationship can provide emotional support and companionship to both parties involved, it also has its drawbacks and can reinforce traditional gender stereotypes.

As attitudes towards gender roles continue to evolve and workplace dynamics continue to shift, it is likely that the concept of the work wife will also continue to evolve. However, the importance of emotional support and companionship in the workplace is unlikely to change, and it is important that companies and individuals continue to find ways to support one another in a professional and respectful manner.

How to View Cohabitation Before Marriage? Is It Necessary to Cohabit Before Getting Married? — A Chinese Perspective

 

In China, the concept of cohabitation before marriage has been gaining acceptance in recent years, especially among young people. This trend reflects the changing attitudes towards relationships and marriage in Chinese society. While traditional values still hold sway in some parts of China, the rise of individualism, economic development, and exposure to Western culture have led to a shift in the perception of premarital cohabitation.

According to a survey conducted by the Chinese Marriage and Family Counseling Center in 2019, over 70% of respondents said they would accept premarital cohabitation. This is a significant increase from the 1980s, when cohabitation was largely considered taboo and could lead to social ostracism.

The reasons for this shift are complex and varied. Some experts believe that the one-child policy, which was in effect from 1979 to 2015, has contributed to the rise of cohabitation. With fewer siblings to rely on for emotional and financial support, young people are seeking alternative ways to form close relationships and build a sense of belonging.

Additionally, the rise of social media and online dating apps has made it easier for people to connect and establish romantic relationships outside of traditional social networks. This has led to a more open and fluid approach to dating and relationships, where individuals have greater control over their own lives and choices.

However, despite the growing acceptance of cohabitation before marriage, there are still some who hold onto traditional beliefs and oppose it. They argue that cohabitation before marriage undermines the sanctity of marriage and can lead to a decline in moral standards. Some people believe that living together before marriage can cause women to lose their value and bargaining power in the relationship, making them more vulnerable to being taken advantage of.

In reality, there are pros and cons to cohabitation before marriage. On the one hand, cohabitation can provide a more accurate understanding of each other’s daily habits, living conditions, and emotional stability. It can also help to identify potential issues and conflicts that may arise after marriage, and allow couples to address these issues before they become bigger problems. Additionally, living together can deepen the emotional bond between two people, and help to build a stronger foundation for a long-term relationship.

On the other hand, cohabitation before marriage can also bring some challenges and risks. For example, it can create the illusion of a stable relationship without the formal commitment of marriage, leading to a sense of uncertainty and instability. Cohabitation can also lead to financial conflicts, as well as sexual and emotional entanglements that may be difficult to disentangle if the relationship ends. Furthermore, cohabitation before marriage can sometimes lead to unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections, which can have serious consequences for both parties involved.

One significant factor that contributes to the acceptance of cohabitation in China is the high cost of weddings and the pressure to buy a house. In China, weddings are expensive affairs that can cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. This financial burden can be a significant barrier for young couples who are just starting out in their careers and may not have the resources to afford a lavish wedding. Additionally, in many parts of China, owning a house is seen as a prerequisite for getting married. This puts further financial pressure on young couples and can make it difficult for them to establish a stable and happy relationship.

Cohabitation before marriage can be seen as a way to bypass these financial obstacles and establish a closer and more intimate relationship without the added burden of wedding costs or the pressure to buy a house. For many young couples, cohabitation is a practical solution that allows them to test the waters of their relationship.