Youths' disconnection from kin a cultural shift

The rising trend of youths' disconnection from relatives' networks represents a profound transformation in Chinese society — one that is both a consequence of socioeconomic changes and evolving culture. In the past, kinship ties were essential to social life, especially in rural communities. But they are rapidly fading among urban youths today.

To understand this trend, we need to examine several key factors, including the changing fabric of Chinese society, the pervasive influence of the internet, the complexities of urban life and the rise of individual autonomy among the youth.

China's shift from an agrarian society to an industrialized, urbanized society is the first reason behind the youths' disconnection from relatives. Rural life was built around strong family networks, where families supported each other and social and economic security was tied to the clan or village. Kinship was not just an emotional bond but a practical necessity. In rural communities, people spent their lives maintaining these networks, with kinship influencing all aspects of life.