For some Chinese youth, 'virtual parents' are an antidote to loneliness
Young Chinese adults are increasingly turning to 'virtual parents' on social media platforms like Douyin to find emotional support and validation. These content creators provide a surrogate family experience for followers who feel overwhelmed by societal pressures and strained relationships with their biological parents.
Why it matters
This trend highlights a growing crisis of loneliness and mental health challenges among Chinese youth, reflecting a shift in how digital platforms are being used to fulfill fundamental human needs.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Eunice Yang Hong Kong BBC / Andro Saini On social media, many young Chinese leave comments to "virtual parents", sharing stories with them and asking for blessings During mealtimes, Vincent Zhang, a tech worker in Shanghai, has a habit of whipping out his phone to check on his "virtual parents": a middle-aged couple online, armed with an endless stream of warm words for their imaginary child.
The article provides a balanced, observational report on a social phenomenon without taking a political stance.
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