Reported by Al Arabiya:
Social activists have warned about the consequences of content circulating on social media that portrays an idealized image of single women’s lives. They caution that the “rosy life” depicted in these virtual spaces requires scrutiny, as while it may appear attractive and independent, it does not necessarily reflect real, ordinary life and may even promote consumerism.
✍|News Analysis By Ms. Zahra Malakoutipoor:
At the heart of Chinese culture lies the term Sheng Nu, or “leftover women,” a derogatory label slapped onto single women over the age of 27. This term is not merely a word but a reflection of a cultural mindset that deems unmarried women as “incomplete” or “unfulfilled.” In China, marriage and family-building are seen as a sacred social duty, particularly for women, who face intense societal and cultural pressures to conform.
Roots of “Sheng Nu” in Tradition and Policy
The roots of this label trace back to traditional Chinese values that prioritize women’s roles as wives and mothers. Media and families reinforce this narrative, subtly branding single women as failures. These pressures not only affect mental health but also restrict personal choices, often leading to forced or rushed marriages. The stigma has intensified in a society shaped by decades of the one-child policy, which exacerbated gender imbalances and entrenched patriarchal norms.
The term “Sheng Nu” was first coined in 2007 by the All-China Women’s Federation to curb the rising number of unmarried women, urging early marriage to address demographic concerns. However, it quickly morphed into a tool for humiliation. Media and advertisements began portraying single women as lonely, desperate, selfish, or overly ambitious, fueling social anxiety.
Resistance Through Social Media
In response, many single women in China are leveraging social media to challenge this stigma. Through viral videos showcasing their independent, joyful lives, they emphasize freedom, financial autonomy, and the high quality of singlehood. These clips implicitly argue that choosing to remain unmarried is not a flaw but a valid, fulfilling lifestyle.
Yet critics argue that such content risks creating an unrealistic facade. They point out that these videos often gloss over systemic issues like workplace gender discrimination or familial pressures. Additionally, many clips promote consumerism by advertising luxury handbags, expensive cosmetics, or trendy home gadgets, potentially reducing the movement’s message to a marketing tool.
Historical Context and Modern Paradoxes
Chinese history offers examples of influential women, such as Empress Wu Zetian, the only woman to rule China independently in ancient times. While such figures highlight women’s potential, modern “Sheng Nu” face a stark contrast: unmarried men are often celebrated as “golden bachelors” or “single diamonds,” while women are shamed for similar choices. This double standard exacerbates social anxiety, pushing many to settle for unsatisfactory marriages or lower their standards to escape the “leftover” label.
The Consumerism Trap
Despite their resistance, some women’s efforts to redefine singlehood have become entangled with consumerism. The glorification of luxury goods in these narratives risks steering lifestyles toward materialism, overshadowing deeper human values. Critics warn that this trend may distract from genuine struggles, such as economic inequality or lack of institutional support for single women.
Calls for Systemic Change
Combating the “Sheng Nu” stigma requires profound shifts in China’s social values. Public education on women’s rights and respect for personal choice is crucial. Media must also adopt balanced portrayals of singlehood to alleviate psychological burdens.
Ultimately, the critique of “Sheng Nu” culture is not just about gender equality but about redefining societal values. Women who choose to remain single or marry later deserve to live free from judgment, crafting lives that authentically reflect their aspirations. As activists emphasize, true progress lies in dismantling the structures that equate a woman’s worth with her marital status.