The surge in youth unemployment in China has given rise to a unique phenomenon known as “full-time children.” This trend involves grown-up individuals who receive a salary from their parents to fulfill the role of being their own children. They spend time with their parents, accompany them for shopping, assist with household tasks, and more.
The Youth Unemployment Crisis in China
China has been grappling with a serious challenge of youth unemployment, largely driven by stringent “zero-Covid” measures and almost three years of pandemic restrictions. As per the National Bureau of Statistics, the youth unemployment rate for the age group 16-24 reached a record high of 21.3% in June. This alarming statistic has sent shockwaves through the nation and has brought to light the severity of the issue.
The Emergence of “Full-Time Children”
In response to the increasing youth unemployment rates, the concept of “full-time children” has gained significant attention in China. This trend involves parents paying their adult children a salary to take care of them, spend time together, and assist with household chores. The rationale behind this arrangement stems from a mix of parental concern and the challenges faced by young people in securing stable employment or pursuing higher education.
Mixed Reactions and Criticism
The trend of “full-time children” has elicited mixed reactions from Chinese society. Some individuals view it as a “blessing,” emphasizing the importance of family unity and mutual support during difficult times. However, others criticize it as a temporary phase and dismissively refer to such young adults as “chewing the old,” a derogatory term used for those who remain dependent on their parents for their livelihood.
Factors Contributing to the Trend
Several factors have contributed to the proliferation of “full-time children” in China. Many young adults find themselves in this position unintentionally as they struggle to find suitable employment opportunities or secure admission to higher education institutions. The economic challenges in the country have also led some young people to settle for less challenging and short-term jobs, while others have adopted the “lying flat” movement, whereby they do the minimum required to get by in life.
Potential Consequences on Chinese Society and Economy
While the “full-time children” trend has been a response to the pressing issue of youth unemployment, it has the potential to create further challenges for both Chinese society and the economy.
- Decrease in Household Disposable Income: With parents financially supporting their adult children, there could be a decrease in household disposable income. This, in turn, may limit the spending capacity of families and impact domestic consumption.
- Reduced Social Consumption: As “full-time children” may prioritize fulfilling their role at home over seeking employment, they may contribute less to social consumption. This could have implications for businesses and sectors that rely on consumer spending.
- Limited Job Creation: The rise of “full-time children” could lead to reduced demand for new job opportunities, resulting in limited job creation. This, in turn, may perpetuate the cycle of unemployment and hinder economic growth.
