Vincent's parents 'never say he's good enough' - so he turned to a middle-aged couple online
Young Chinese professionals are increasingly turning to 'virtual parents' on social media platforms like Douyin to find the emotional support and validation they feel is missing from their real-life family relationships. These content creators offer comfort to followers struggling with high-pressure societal expectations.
Why it matters
Illustrates the impact of intense social and professional pressure on the mental well-being of China's younger generation.
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 explores a social phenomenon with a balanced, observational approach.
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