Analysis of the Current Situation of College Students' Views on Love, Marriage and Mate Selection in the New Era

Yuwei Wu

GBP Proceedings Series, 2026, vol. 32, 56-64

Abstract: In the contemporary era, college students' perspectives on love, marriage, and mate selection have undergone significant transformation, exhibiting characteristics of diversification, rationalization, and a growing emphasis on individual fulfillment. This study systematically investigates the evolving attitudes and behavioral patterns of Chinese university students regarding romantic relationships and marital decisions within the rapidly changing sociocultural landscape of the new era. Through comprehensive analysis, the research reveals that in terms of romantic attitudes, an aspirational longing for romance coexists with a cautious and pragmatic approach to relationship commitment. The underlying motivation for marriage has fundamentally shifted from fulfilling traditional social functions toward prioritizing emotional value and personal compatibility as the dominant determining factors. Furthermore, the proliferation of digital socialization platforms has profoundly reshaped the mechanisms through which young adults initiate and sustain intimate relationships. Regarding mate selection criteria, tangible indicators such as personality traits and economic stability are increasingly intertwined with intangible qualities including value alignment, resulting in notable pressures stemming from economic constraints and familial expectations. Concurrently, the widespread dissemination of marriage-related concerns and apprehension toward marital commitment underscores the urgent necessity for coordinated efforts integrating emotional education programs within higher education institutions alongside supportive social policies. This study proposes that respecting individual autonomy in relationship decisions while establishing a comprehensive and systematic support framework constitutes the most effective strategy for guiding college students toward cultivating healthy and constructive perspectives on love and marriage in contemporary society.

Keywords: college students; marriage attitudes; mate selection; digital socialization; emotional education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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