“Leftover Women”: Stigmatize Unmarried Women in China

Abstract

This article explores the phenomenon of unmarried women being stigmatized as "leftover women" in Chinese society and its underlying causes. It also examines the impact of culture, society, media and policy on this phenomenon through the lens of "doing gender" theory. Against the backdrop of traditional Chinese culture and social norms, the phenomenon of "leftover women" is deeply rooted in stereotypical images of women's marital roles, a stigmatization that is further reinforced by media portrayals. Policies such as the one-child policy and family planning have exacerbated the social pressure on unmarried women. This phenomenon reflects gender inequality and complex perceptions of marriage, which have a negative impact on women's social status and mental health. Understanding these factors can facilitate a societal shift towards gender equality and respect for different lifestyles. The study delves into the cultural context of traditional expectations of marriage, the role of the media in shaping societal views and the impact of policy in reinforcing the ideal of early marriage, emphasizing the complex interplay of cultural traditions, social change, media influence, policy impact and individual psychological dimensions in shaping the stigma of "leftover women".