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THE EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON CHINESE COLLEGE STUDENTS ATTITUDES
TOWARD MARRIAGE AND FUTURE LIFE PARTNERS
By
Matthew D. Beccaria
Advised by Dr. Yi Schuler
A Masters Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for
the Degree of Master of Arts in International Studies
in the School of Professional Studies
Concordia University
Irvine California
07/31/2013
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 2
Abstract
With the introduction of materialism into modern Chinese society, attitudes toward marriage and
future life partners transform in a rapidly changing environment. As the current generation of
youth rises along with China’s increasing global influence, so does the demand for material
goods for the sake of security and stability. The purpose of this study is to identify whether or
not there is a significant attitude difference between gender toward marriage and future life
partners. By using random sampling, 406 Chinese college students (N = 406) primarily from
Hangzhou, Zhejiang China were surveyed to examine their attitudes toward marriage and future
life partners in relationship to materialism. Quantitative methods were used, utilizing ANOVA
analysis as well as univariate analysis. The research concludes that there are differences between
genders when perceiving a potential life partner and their materialistic wealth, yet both genders’
attitudes toward their own materialistic wealth has less significance. Findings also suggest that
although Chinese college students value materialism, they are not opposed to selecting future life
partners without materialistic wealth if the prospective partner works diligently. This suggests
that materialism, although important, may not be the only criteria when considering marriage and
a future life partner.
Keywords: China, college student, materialism, life partner, marriage, marital choice
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 3
Acknowledgements
This research is dedicated to my grandfather, Frank Beccaria. This research could not
have been made possible without the help of several other important individuals: My advisor, Dr.
Yi Schuler, who graciously guided and mentored me throughout the year. Nikko Zhou, who
helped to translate my survey into Chinese and advised me during discussions of materialism’s
increasing importance in Chinese society. Max, who helped to re-translate the second draft of my
survey. Most importantly, my parents David and Kristin Beccaria who have endured the long
arduous duty of watching their son live abroad in foreign countries and have continued their
support through all my life goals and ambitions. Thank you all, you are forever in my thanks.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 4
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................6
China: An Overview ................................................................................................6
Research Topic/Questions .......................................................................................7
Purpose of the Study ................................................................................................7
Key Terms ................................................................................................................8
Literature Review...........................................................................................................9
1949-1978: Marriage and the Importance of Political Involvement ........................9
1978-Present: Changes in Marriage, The Incorporation of Materialistic Pursuits.12
Home Life as Defined by Materialistic Pursuits Based on Gender Outlooks ........16
Summary ................................................................................................................19
Methodology ................................................................................................................20
Research Design.....................................................................................................20
Instrument ..............................................................................................................21
Subjects ..................................................................................................................22
Ethical Considerations ...........................................................................................22
Results ..........................................................................................................................23
Demographics ........................................................................................................23
Data Analysis ...............................................................................................................26
Attitudes Toward Materialism: Univariate Analysis .............................................27
The Importance of Materialism and Status: Bivariate Analysis ............................30
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 5
Discussion and Conclusion ..........................................................................................33
Materialism Providing Sense of Happiness and Security/Stability .......................34
Attitudes towards the Importance of Materialism among Gender .........................34
Importance of Possessing a Stable Job, House ......................................................36
Consideration of Diligence ....................................................................................37
Limitations .............................................................................................................37
Future Research .....................................................................................................37
References ....................................................................................................................39
Appendices ...................................................................................................................43
Appendix A Survey (English) ................................................................................43
Appendix B Survey (Chinese) ...............................................................................46
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 6
Introduction
China: An Overview
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) was established on October 1, 1949, with the city of
Beijing as acting capital. Between 1945 and 1949, China was in a civil war when the Communist
and Nationalist troops fought for national power. After PRC was established, Maoist thought
spread through many political and social campaigns, giving way to Utopian ideals that stressed
and placed importance on uniformity and political support within families. The communist
structure was based on the proletariat class and the peasantry, opposed to the Nationalist party
which was centralized around the bourgeois or capitalist class (Aldabek, Assyl, Dauyen, &
Serikkaliyeva, 2012).
Throughout the last few decades, China has reformed its policies and directed its attention
toward modernization of cities, economy and its society. “Progressive advancement grounded in
economic achievements, gain of welfare for its citizens and political stability” have become a
role model for other developing nations (Aldabek, Assyl, Dauyen, & Serikkaliyeva, 2012).
Western methods and materialism have impacted Chinese society in many ways from consumers
to big business, allowing for its incredible growth, which is expected to continue over the next
couple of decades. According to some, this perception has left an imprint that China will soon be
the world’s acting superpower (Subramanian, 2011).
In addition, the central role of Chinese citizens is no longer focused around political
involvement as it was during Mao Zedong’s leadership. The driving force in Chinese society has
evolved into a consumer based society that idolizes materialism, perceiving the ability to make
money as the central defining characteristic for success. As China continues to open to the world,
it is increasingly closer to becoming the leading competitor in the global market. Therefore, its
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 7
new global role has allowed for new societal expectations (Boshier & Yan, 2010).
Research Topic.
The central research topic under study is materialism’s affects on Chinese college
student's attitudes toward marriage and future life partners within the city of Hangzhou, China.
The study explores how materialistic pursuits such as a house, a car and a steady income impact
Chinese college student's decisions when contemplating potential life partners. It examines the
differences between gender and social status and how materialism affects people's decisions
regarding marriage within these categories. These social factors provide insights on how various
factors can alter perceptions on marriage among college students in Hangzhou, China, which
may give some insight into the society as a whole. This study not only examines how
materialism affects a person's perceived desirability as a suitable life partner, but it also examines
how materialism contributes toward Chinese college students’ choice of life partners.
Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study was to gain a critical understanding of how contemporary
college students perceive material wealth in potential marriage relationships within Chinese
culture. This study determines whether college students would refute the possibility of life
partners when they do not yet have the ideal amount of material possessions under their name.
This study examines the different affects that materialism has on gender and social status when
making marital decisions and considering a life partner. The study compares gender roles and
gives a greater insight into the intricacies of males and females attitudes toward their opposite
sex by examining materialistic requirements expected of males and females as potential life
partners.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 8
Key Terms
College student: Any student who is currently enrolled in a university at the undergraduate or
post graduate level. The age ranges for this group is from 18-31.
Gender: The behavioral, cultural or psychological traits typically associated with one sex, male
or female (Merriam-Webster.com, 2012a).
Life Partner: One member of a monogamous relationship, within the context of marriage
(Merriam-Webster.com, 2012a).
Materialism: A preoccupation with or stress upon material rather than intellectual or spiritual
things (Merriam-Webster.com, 2012a).
New Marriage Law (1950): Enacted on April 13, 1950 under Mao Zedong. It gave people
(particularly women) the freedom to choose who they wanted to marry and changed various rules
for marriage and divorce (Bullough & Ruan 1994; Kline & Zhang 2009).
New Marriage Law (1980): Enacted on January 1, 1981 under Deng Xiaoping. It expanded upon
and reformed the previous marriage law by raising minimum marital ages to limit birth rates
(Bullough & Ruan 1994; Kline & Zhang 2009).
One Child Policy Act: The policy consists of a set of regulations that govern the approved size of
Chinese family size, late marriage and child bearing and the spacing of children in cases where a
second child is permitted (Nakra, 2012).
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 9
Literature Review
To find out what college students’ attitudes are towards the importance of materialism in
a future life partner and marriage, it is important to learn about Chinese government’s family
planning policies over the course of the last sixty years since 1949 when the Chinese Communist
party took power. The literature review is organized in a way that divides Chinese marriage
policies from 1949 onwards into two phases. The first time period from 1949-1978, describes
Mao Zedong's new Marriage Law enacted on April 13 of 1950 (Bullough & Ruan, 1994) as well
as other enacted policies. The second phase discusses the policies enacted by Deng Xiao Ping
from 1979 to present day China. The purpose of this distinction is to first introduce and establish
a better understanding for why and how Chinese perceptions on marriage have developed since
1949. It examines the transformation from a political to material society and the increasing
importance of materialistic wealth in determining social status among families and marital
arrangements.
The review then examines the significance of materialism within the context of home life
as defined by materialistic pursuits based on gender outlooks and how attitudes towards marriage
and future life partners have been influenced. As gender is discussed, it introduces differences
and how this may be an important dependent variable when examining materialism's effects on
college student’s attitudes.
1949-1978: Marriage and the Importance of Political Involvement
Throughout the Mao Zedong era, Chinese family life significantly transformed with the
introduction of marriage reform policies and had a significant impact on Chinese family life. The
new Marriage Law enacted on April 13, 1950 gave people, particularly women, the freedom to
choose who they wanted to marry, set the minimum age for women to be married at 18 and men
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 10
at 20, allowed both parties to apply for divorce, stated that marriage was to be monogamous, that
both sexes were to hold equal rights and that “bigamy, concubinage, child betrothals and dowries
were forbidden” (Bullough & Ruan 1994; Kline & Zhang 2009; Ikels, 1996). This policy
allowed women to break the ties of the older ideologies from Confucian society and expanded
upon their role within the society.
With the change in women’s status, women were no longer subject to dominance by male
family members. Specifically, rules such as the three obediences: obedience to father before
marriage, obedience to husband during marriage and obedience to son when widowed (Ikels,
1996). However, the marriage laws were not strictly observed throughout the nation and issues of
resistance were being fought up until the 1980s. Educational campaigns were conducted to
spread the new marriage law, particularly for the benefit of rural areas where forced marriages
and plural marriages continued to exist (Bullough & Ruan 1994; Ikels, 1996).
Prior to the Cultural Revolution, the new communist government’s expansion of
education greatly impressed upon the importance of educational achievement in order to obtain
status. This status was highly sought after for urban matchmaking and life partners. Individuals
who were enrolled in school, specifically in universities, were more likely to find a potential life
partner who was either well educated or were intellectuals. According to Mao Zedong, “the
resume and development of people's education was one of the current key tasks”; subsequently
educational homogeneity was greatly increased during this period (Liao, 1994). A woman’s
ability to pursue education was greatly expanded upon and women’s increased educational
attainment consequently reduced the gender inequality in education, leading to women’s
preference for educational attainment in life partner selections (Liao, 1994).
From 1966 to 1976 during the 10 year Proletarian Cultural Revolution, radical de-
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 11
stratification policies altered the course of the social order and essentially reversed educational
value from within the society (Liao, 1994). The Meritocratic system was replaced by political
loyalty and therefore changed the way people sought life partners. In addition, there were fewer
people in the education system due to its destruction and individuals were then less likely to meet
under such a circumstance. Soon traditional Confucian values were destroyed and teachers were
re-defined as the lowest political status. As education’s status weakened and intellectuals
received accusations of anti-revolutionary involvement, the opportunities for marriages to take
place across “educational boundaries” increased (Liao, 1994).
In addition to this, the Sent-Down Movement also played a significant role in devaluing
education and impacted marriage choices. This policy led to the event of 12 million youths being
sent from urban areas to the rural country side from 1968-1975 to help decrease the pressure on
the urban job market. As urban children were faced with an increasingly likelihood of a rural
future, their chances of mate selection in an educational institute decreased. It also increased the
chances of these youths to marry into a rural setting which failed to create educational homogeny
as these couples returned to the cities when the Cultural Revolution ended (Liao, 1994).
As the policies of the PRC developed throughout the Cultural Revolution, the
government's social ambitions were associated with political propaganda and political
involvement. The Chinese family was institutionalized for the betterment of communism and
could be seen in the entourage of political posters (Belk, 2002). All of these changes had a
tremendous impact on the way Chinese people perceived and made decisions regarding potential
life partners, particularly regarding the emphasis on a person’s political background and their
relationship to social status (Hamon & Ingoldsby, 2003). Therefore, attitudes among Chinese
showed an increased emphasis on the importance of political status.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 12
According to Hamon and Ingoldsby (2003), “between 1967 and 1976, 54.1% of young
people married in the cities ranked family political background and personal political status as
the third most important criterion for mate selection, after health and reliability.” Interestingly,
wealth was not advertised as an ambition, instead patriotism was pegged as the community
ambition that would benefit the social state and encourage political participation and
involvement. These ambitions were very different than what followed after Mao Zedong during
Deng Xiao Ping’s reforms. These attitudes among young couples reflected a period in which
political status provided security and stability, unlike the period that followed, which centered
around material security and stability (Hamon & Ingoldsby, 2003).
1978-Present: Changes in Marriage and the Incorporation of Materialistic Pursuits
1978-Mid-1990s. Following the death of Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping came back to
power by strategically mobilizing his support within the Communist party. His eventual
leadership in the government led to criticisms of the Cultural Revolution, effectively weakening
opposition and gaining popular support. Deng expanded upon previous policies and altered
China’s direction toward a Socialist Market economy. His expansion on marriage policies led to
the 1980 Marriage Law which took effect January 1, 1981, which replaced and built upon the
changes to the 1950 Marriage Law from Mao Zedong's leadership (Bullough & Ruan, 1994;
Kline & Zhang, 2009). Deng Xiao Ping's reforms sought to influence marriage by raising age
requirements in order to limit birth rates. To be eligible to marry according to national law, a man
must be of the age 22 and a woman 20 (Bell, 1983; Ikels, 1996). The marriage license obtained
by couples governed both marriage and family relations, meaning there would be equality
between spouses. Each spouse could pursue his or her own freedoms without restricting the other
to further his or her education, participation of social activities and work (Bell, 1983).
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 13
However, the government had gone to great lengths to postpone marriages by defining an
appropriate time, advocating “late marriages,” which was part of the family planning regulation
(Bullough & Ruan 1994; Ikels, 1996). Unlike the lower national age requirements, townships
such as Beijing could raise the required age differing from the rest of the nation. Marriage
licenses in Beijing would not be issued to couples unless the man reached the minimum age of
27 years old and a woman 25, strictly adhering to the government’s “promotion” of the “one
child family” (Bell, 1983). The government’s promotion of family planning and the One Child
Policy Act was taken very seriously in hopes of controlling the increasing population. Clashes
between old and new values regarding preferred births to male descendants became conflicting;
therefore rewards were given to those who chose to follow marriage planning laws. If families
chose not to follow family planning, punishments were given, often in the forms of fines (Bell,
1983; Nakra, 2012).
According to Coale (1989), women’s “mean age at first marriage” in 1930 was 17.5
compared to 1980 which rose to 23, signifying a change in social marriage acceptability. Couples
may still have been allowed to marry according to the national age of 22 for a man and 20 for a
woman, but contraception was required to prevent and uphold the government’s agenda for
population control (Ikels, 1996). Family planning policies such as the One Child Policy helped
influence the timing of marriages, causing both postponed marriages and later birth rates (Coale,
1989). The increase in later marriages over the last several years has caused over a 10% drop in
the total amount of births that could have taken place since 1950 if policy had not been enacted,
which essentially accomplished some of the government's family reforms (Coale, 1989).
People’s responses to later marriages sparked concern among Chinese authorities who were
afraid of citizen’s discontent due to the tradition of being married near the age of 18 (Coale,
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 14
1989).
Mid-1990s-Present. Not surprisingly, when examining Chinese college student’s
attitudes toward relationships today, similar results of postponed relationships are confirmed.
According to Zhang (2006), when Chinese and American college students were surveyed and
compared, it was confirmed that among the Chinese students, dating later, dating less and the
less likelihood of developing sexual relationships were more apparent, an effect of earlier
policies.
Regardless of the severe government’s family planning reforms, China has continued to
gain more freedom in their ability to choose their mates (Bullough & Ruan, 1994). China is now
faced with new sexual attitudes just as the West had been during its own counter culture
revolution. China’s new freedom to choose mates has helped to create a wave of silent protests
and influence attitudes toward marriage and relationships in Chinese society (Bullough & Ruan,
1994). One of the main causes for this cultural adoption was China’s Open Door Policy, leading
to the exposure of Western countries and cultures which continues to influence China's youth,
giving them new impressions of success (Guocang, 1986). Unlike the political propaganda of
Mao's Revolutionary Era, present day China is now faced with materialistic advertisements that
promote monetary success due to Deng Xiaoping’s policies. China's social media no longer
promotes the families’ political involvement as it did during the Cultural Revolution, but instead,
individuals have now become the target of advertising (Belk, 2002). Many of these new values
have and are currently being influenced by materialism and Western ideals of success. As the
“increased opportunity for the attainment of wealth and property” grow, individuals are
increasingly subjected to the influence of material wealth (Fuligni & Zhang, 2004). Children in
China today have a new sense of success than their grandparents did, who grew up in a very
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 15
different era (Hermans, Parker, & Schaefer, 2004). Society no longer emphasizes the
participation of political involvement and therefore ambitions have been shifted toward material
acquisition to obtain security and stability.
With the incorporation of new laws and restrictions, Chinese families were forced to re-
think how and when they should get married. Emphasis on career and later marriages gained
importance. Attitudes toward first establishing careers before establishing a marriage have forced
young males to make enough money to garner enough buying power so they can afford a home
large enough to attract a suitable life partner (Kline & Zhang, 2009). According to Zhang (2006),
“Chinese college students who anticipated an earlier age of marriage tended to have a more
traditional attitude toward gender roles.” Those “Chinese college students who anticipated a later
age of marriage tended to have a more egalitarian gender role attitude,” suggesting that there has
been significant influence from family planning policies and on college students. Additionally, as
materialism was introduced, perspectives on social status transformed and people no longer saw
marriage as a sole indicator for their success. Instead, superficial ideals became the new
necessary ideal for higher social status (Kline & Zhang, 2009). Material possessions such as a
house, car and stable job (financial income) became the indicator for security/stability.
Recently in 2011, family and marriage policies have continued to be revised from the
original 1950 Marriage Law. With the most recent interpretation of the Marriage Law, the
Chinese government has specified that unless “legally consented, marital property essentially
belongs to the person who owns the home and whose name is on the property deed” (Fincher,
2013). Although, it is argued this is a gender neutral approach to home ownership, the majority
of names that are on property deeds tend to be male. According to Fincher (2013), in the cities of
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, “80 percent of marital homes are owned or co-
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 16
owned by men, while only 30 percent of marital home deeds include the woman’s name”.
Therefore, although marriage reforms have taken place, it appears that there are still
discrepancies among gender roles. This shows a dominant male presence in matters of home
ownership, indicating that males themselves may see home ownership as a necessary
requirement to fit the description of a potential life partner.
Home Life as Defined by Materialistic Pursuits based on Gender Outlooks
Today, the emphasis on materialistic pursuits within Chinese culture has continued to
evolve people's understandings of marriage and future life partners. After 1978, wealth was no
longer associated with being “anti-revolutionary,” opening the society to new influences and
suitable life partner choices (Hamon & Ingoldsby, 2003). Qualities that deem a life partner
suitable now have new standards. One of which pertains to materialism, which has been brought
over from Western culture due to China’s increasingly global presence and openness to foreign
exchange. With this new presence, the desire for consumer goods and an elite life style are now
at the center of Chinese life (Kline & Zhang 2009; Podoshen, Lu & Junfeng, 2011; Schaefer,
Hermans, & Parker, 2004). The major contributors claimed by the Chinese to be essential
necessities prior to marital commitment include: a car, a house and a stable profession (tied to
financial income). These qualities are centered on material standards that people value when
considering marriage to a future life partner. Material necessities are required of a prospective
life partner because it is a way of increasing social status and demonstrating a sense of security
that can be provided to the potential life partner and their family members indicating who
suitable candidates are and are not (Liao, 1994; Kline & Zhang, 2009).
When examining leaving the home, there appears to be a direct relationship between
moving out and marriage. There was a 48 times greater risk of moving out within 6 months of
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 17
getting married up until the ceremony. This shows that leaving the home is directly related to a
marital transition and provides insight into how gender, housing and financial ability are key
factors in a family’s career (Ikels, 1996; Chiu, 2002).
When breaking down gender roles in relationship to moving out and getting married,
there are varying characteristics to be considered. According to Ting and Chiu (2002), in a Hong
Kong study regarding leaving the home, the differences of moving out for men and women
showed that women had a 71 times greater likelihood of moving out compared to men with a 21
times greater likelihood. Differences between males and females show that there are significant
differences on the male and female gender roles and their responsibilities. Males are
predominantly more likely to stay with their families because of the familial responsibility,
whereas females are more likely to move in with their new husbands family after being married
(Chui, 2002).
According to Zhang (2005), one mother reported that her son sent a letter home asking
for 20,000 RMB for his marriage, stating that “no money, no marriage.” The significance of this
shows that there is an importance placed on sons within the context of the family unit and
therefore hold a responsibility of finding and acquiring housing for the newly formed marriage
(Zhang, 2005). Without the financial support from their family a male partner would not be able
to provide and establish ties with his female life partner.
When examining housing and independent living, according to Ikels' (1996) research in
Guangzhou, 47% of couples lived with their husband's family after being married, while 32%
found a residence independently from their families. Although there is a larger percentage of
those who lived with their in-laws over an independent residence, it is still noted that “most
parents and adult children preferred living separately” (Ikels, 1996, p.120; Whyte, 2005). Unlike
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 18
the living conditions and limitations during the 1980's in Guangzhou the importance of having a
home in contemporary China is now an increasingly heavy burden on families and their sons as
stated earlier and is seen as a necessity in order to be married and start a new family (Ikels, 1996).
This gender role places an increasing importance on the husband and his family to provide a
dwelling or support, creating an increasing financial burden to ensure independent success from
parents.
Ikels views still seem to be valid in contemporary China regarding the importance of
materialism and housing. Due to the lack of finances or availability to acquire a home, owning a
house has become a symbol for not only providing a shelter, but also for providing status,
financial security and satisfaction in acquiring the “consumer goods and elite life style” that now
effect attitudes toward marriages (Kline & Zhang, 2009). Life partners who possess households
are more appealing choices and make more suitable life partners. This creates gender differences
in their roles and responsibilities.
While examining and comparing men and women, there are some additional differences
between the genders in their attitudes toward marriage roles and standards in potential life
partners aside from housing. What is important in marriage to a female will take on a different
search than a male would when trying to find a suitable life partner as seen from Ikels’ research.
Contact with modernized countries has a large impact on Chinese people, who are now adopting
more Westernized values and lifestyles. The significance between gender differences shows that
men look for traits such as appearance and chastity while females look for education, intelligence
and income (Chia, Chong, & Chong, 1986; Higgins & Chunhui, 2007; Kline & Zhang, 2009).
The importance of these observations is that there are different expectations formed by
each gender creating separate standards which are necessary in order to fulfill requirements to
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 19
become a suitable life partner for marriage. This study examines the correlation among income
and materialism between males and females to find out if there are gender differences regarding
materialism and examine the importance of acquiring the stable job and acquisition of a house
for a male.
The transformation from political importance to materialistic acquisition has transformed
attitudes among Chinese towards marriage and life partner preference since 1949. Although there
are other factors, the New Marriage Laws and other policies, established by Mao Zedong and
Deng Xiao Ping regarding family planning have greatly impacted the outlook on Chinese family
life. College students are now faced with an increasing emphasis on the importance of obtaining
particular materialistic assets in order to become what is deemed a suitable life partner.
Acquisition of material possessions such as a house, car and stable job may shape college
students attitudes towards the importance of materialism in their consideration of life partners as
Ikels (1996) has noted in Guangzhou.
Summary
Overall, decisions regarding future life partners and attitudes toward marriage seem to
have a direct relationship with materialism. Throughout China’s development and the
introduction of various marriage reforms, Chinese society has evolved “from arranged marriages
toward free-choice marriages,” allowing for greater “autonomy” among its citizens (Tang & Zuo,
2000). Currently, in choosing life partners, there seems to have been an increasing emphasis on
material wealth because it is an indicator of providing security and stability.
Upon further examination, the differences between gender expectations and requirements
are reasonably different. Desired male characteristics verses female characteristics have two
separate standards. As Ikels (1996), Podoshen and Junfeng (2011) have pointed out, males and
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 20
their families are expected of more financial obligations. Suitable partners must have the
necessary material wealth to be able to provide support and are therefore expected to have a
house or a dwelling for which the newly married couple can reside within (Ikels, 1996; Podoshen
& Junfeng, 2011). As China has developed and opened its doors, it is apparent that materialism’s
influence on Chinese society has significantly impacted life decisions regarding marriage and
how people perceive suitable life partners. Social status is not only a sign of wealth, but also an
indicator of whether a potential life partner can provide for a family.
Methodology
Research Design
The questions that this research is seeking to examine are materialism’s effect on Chinese
college students’ attitudes toward marriage and future life partners. The primary questions are
whether or not materialism is considered set criteria for Chinese college students in choosing life
partners and making decisions regarding marriage and their levels of importance. Differences
between genders were also investigated. This research is primarily quantitative in nature to
supply the research with more tangible supporting evidence rather than abstract results. A
quantitative approach supplies the research with intrinsic value with clear concise numerical data
that can be easily interpreted in comparison to a qualitative approach. Univariate and bivariate
analysis was utilized, including descriptive analysis (mean and standard deviation). Bivariate
analysis such as ANOVA was run to examine if there was any significance between independent
variables such as gender and dependent variables such as college student's attitudes toward the
importance of materialism for themselves and their future life partners. This would provide the
necessary data to examine the differences in responses by gender and the effects materialism has
had on college students’ attitudes toward future life partners and marriages within Hangzhou.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 21
Instrument
The instrument was distributed by using convenient sampling. A snowball survey method
was used to collect the data. In order to gather enough information and reach a large sample size,
surveys were distributed through the convenience of Survey Monkey. The link to take the survey
was passed out in my own university classes as well as classes of other foreign teachers whom I
have a personal relationship with prior to the research. Students were encouraged to share the
survey link with their classmates to help reach a larger sample size. The students received class
credit for participating in the survey without interrupting the flow of the class lesson. In my own
classes, special lesson plans were created to facilitate the survey activity. The survey questions
were created in English and translated into Chinese. Then the translated survey was re-translated
back into English by another qualified translator, with the researcher making comparisons
between the original English version and the back translated version to make sure no subtle
meaning was lost in the translation process. Before distribution, the survey instrument was
revised accordingly to ensure accuracy. All questionnaires were distributed in both English and
Chinese with both translations written side by side.
The survey included 10 demographic questions such as age, gender, education, income,
class status, grade level, family's income, which acted as the demographic independent variables
for this research. These were used to examine the effects of materialism. The survey covered 11
dependent variables regarding the attitudes toward materialism and marriages and how college
students perceived future life partners in general. A majority of the dependent variables were
rated by using a Likert scale onto which levels of importance were distributed as follows: 1 =
Not important, 2 = A Little Important, 3 = Somewhat Important, 4 = Important, 5 = Very
Important. The result was analyzed to examine college students’ attitudes toward materialistic
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 22
elements such as houses, cars, stable jobs, class statuses and security/stability for oneself and
potential life partners.
Subjects
The majority of the research participants came from university students at Hangzhou
Dianzi Keji University, in Xiasha district of Hangzhou, Zhejiang China. However, the sample
size was not limited to this particular university but also included university students from other
campuses within the city of Hangzhou. My sample included my own students who were taking
English classes at the university from the foreign teachers department. The majority of the
students in my classes were English majors, but were not limited to this discipline. Majors were
not included on the survey and therefore an accurate description cannot be given regarding this
demographic category. The sample included students from varying grade levels ranging from
freshmen to seniors as well as post graduates. A total of 453 surveys were distributed among the
university students and 453 copies were collected. However, among the collected surveys, 47
copies were incomplete and discarded. The total number of useable surveys were 406 (N=406).
The main criteria for a returned survey to be included in the final analysis required 100%
completion. Additionally, several collected surveys were cut based on the fact that some
participants chose “other”, and filled in unrelated answers, which distorted data. Having “other”
as an option on the survey would have also restricted the researcher’s ability to use ANOVA
analysis.
Ethical Considerations
All university student participants were aware that participation in this search was
voluntary. Student participants were approached during class times and were given surveys to fill
out for themselves as well as to pass along to their classmates. Students were told that the
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 23
research would be used for academic purposes, examining the relationship between materialism
and marriage. The survey was anonymous and all collected data were kept confidential and there
is no risk involved in completing the survey.
Results
Demographics
The higher education system in Hangzhou has improved its educational profile,
expanding to 38 general universities, 446.7 thousand students of which 41.8 thousand are
graduate students as of 2011. The increase in college enrollement has increased 1.1% since 2010
with a 56.8% gross enrollment. Income earnings in 2011 among urban residents was 34,065 yuan
per capita and 15,245 yuan per capita for rural residents in Hangzhou with 13.4% growth for
urban and 15.6% growth for rural (Hangzhou Statistics, 2012).
Chinese College Students’ Gender. Of the 406 Chinese college students, 46% (188)
were males and 54% (218) were females. According to the the 2010 national census done by the
Peoples Republic of China there were a total of 51.27% males and 48.73% females representing
the overall demographic of the country with an average female student population of 51.14%
(National Buearu of Statistics PRC, 2012). This data concluded that my collection was within a
5-6% margin of both genders providing an accurate and comparable analysis of the overall
general population. However, the limitations of this analysis are that my research was limited to
the city of Hangzhou.
Students’ Ages. The breakdown of respondents’ ages showed the following. Ages ranged
from 18-31 years of age. The mean age of students surveyed is 21.31 years old (SD = 1.63) with
the median age at 21 years old and the mode at 21 years old. The data appears to have a slight
negative skew to the right as seen in Figure 1.1 below. Fewer older students were acquired due to
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 24
the limited availability at the university. The majority of surveys were distributed through use of
a convenient sample to students between the level of freshmen and senior levels, although post
graduate degree candidates/holders were contacted. Therefore, the most survey respondents were
between 20-22 years old and were mostly sophomores.
Figure 1.1. The percentage of Chinese college students in age groups.
Students’ Families’ Total Monthly Income. There were 4.18% (17) of respondents in
the less than 1,999 RMB bracket and 17.49% (71) in the 2,000-3,999 RMB bracket. The figure
suggests that most college student’s families are making between 4,000-5,999 RMB with 25.12%
(102) of the participants. There were 16.75% (68) in the 6,000-7,999 RMB bracket, 14.04% (57)
in the 8,000-9,999 RMB bracket and 22.41% (91) in the more than 10,000 RMB bracket.
According to the research results, there seems to be some data inconsistency with the monthly
income at the upper range. The resulted sample for families who made more than 10,000 RMB
per month was significantly larger, creating an uneven distribution with the rest of the reported
data. This was more than likely due to the format of the question. A wider range for income
should have been bracketed as to give a better distribution of the results at the higher income
levels, allowing for more evenly distributed data. See Figure 1.2 below. The median is 4 and the
mode is 3.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 25
Figure 1.2. Students’ families’ total monthly income.
Students’ Marital Status. Of the 406 students, 98.52% (400) responded that they were
single. Only 0.98 (4) responded that they were married and 0.49 (2) responded that they were
separated. This data appears reasonable due to the student’s ages and that most active university
students have never been married and are single. The median was 5 and the mode 5. Results also
indicate that earlier marriages were reduced possiblly because of the family planning policies,
which is supported by an overwhelming majority of Chinese college students reporting their
relationship status as single.
Current Grade Level in University. Grade level was distributed into 5 categories,
freshmen, sophomore, junior, senior and post graduate. According to findings by grade level,
16.74% (68) of respondents were freshmen, 51.23% (208) of respondents were sophomore,
13.54% (55) were junior, 12.31% (50) were senior and 6.15% (25) were post graduates. The
mean is 2.39 (SD = 1.09) with the median at 2 and the mode at 2. The graph shows a negative
skew to the right as seen in Figure 1.3. This coincides with the fact that the classes the researcher
taught at the university were primarily sophomore level university students. Furthermore, the
research participants were instructed to pass on the survey link to their friends and acquaintances
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 26
who are likely to be of their own age, which shows reasonable cause for such a discrepancy in
the data.
Figure 1.3. Student’s current grade level.
Data Analysis
Univariate analysis was used to describe Chinese college students’ attitudes toward
materialism. Survey questions were graphed to give a basic introduction of materialism’s effects
on security/stability, happiness, the most important materialistic quality a potential life partner
could possess, and consideration of a life partner with no materialistic wealth but works
diligently.
Bivariate analysis was used to determine whether there is gender difference in
materialism. Basic demographic analysis on gender was used to show the mean levels of
importance giving a clear outline of differences among gender. One way ANOVA tests were used
to examine gender against the importance of having a stable job for oneself, importance for
future life partner to have stable job, and importance for future life partner to own a house.
ANOVA analysis was also used to examine attitudes among gender and levels of importance
regarding future life partner’s social status. This provides the research with more information
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 27
about attitudes among Chinese college students and how people perceive future life partners as
well as their social status among society.
Attitudes Toward Materialism: Univariate Analysis
Univariate analysis showed that among 406 college students, 72.41% (294) felt that
materialistic wealth could provide them with a sense of security/stability as seen in Figure 2.1.
Materialism appears to be given a great importance in their lives according to the majoirty of
respondents, suggesting that security/stability are defined by how much wealth is in a person’s
possession.
Figure 2.1. The percentage of attitudes toward materialistic wealth providing security/stability
(N = 406).
When asked if materialistic wealth could bring happiness to a marriage/future marriage,
67.24 percent (273) of college students responded yes as seen in Figure 2.2. These statistics
demonstrate college students’ attitudes towards materialism providing their marraiges/future
marriages with security/stability.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 28
Figure 2.2. The percentage of attitudes toward materialistic wealth bringing marriage happiness
(N = 406).
Of the 406 respondents, 79% (319) chose having a stable job as the most important
materialistic quality for a potential life partner to possess. Another 15% (61) chose house as the
most important quality. Only 4% (16) of respondents chose “other” and filled in that materialisim
as unimportant. The least chosen category had only 2 percent (10) of respondents reporting
owning a car as the most important materialistic quality. See Figure 2.3 below. This indicates that
life partners who possess a stable job are in possession of a materialistic quality that may
increase their potential as a life partner.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 29
Figure 2.3. The most important quality for potential life partners (N=406).
Students were asked whether or not they would consider marrying a potential life partner
who had no materialistic wealth but still worked diligently. There were 96.80% (363) who
responded yes. See Figure 2.4 below. Although, a majority of students responded that
materialism is related to security/stability and happiness. This data indicates that student’s
attitudes may reflect some exceptions for potential life partners with no materialistic wealth
depending on how hard they are willing to work.
Figure 2.4. The percentage of participants who would marry a partner with no wealth but work
diligently.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 30
The Importance of Materialism and Status: Bivariate Analysis
When asked how important is it to respondents to have a stable job, the Likert scale was
ranked from 1-5, 1 being not important and 5 being very important. Females held having a stable
job as more important than their male counterparts (female mean = 4.41; male mean = 4.13) See
Figure 2.5 below. This result indicates that having a stable job for both males and females holds
significant importance when looking at oneself. Gender resulted in 46 percent (188) males and
54 percent (218) females. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted between gender and the
level of importance of having a job. The analysis concluded there is a variation between mean of
importance and gender: (F(1, 810) = 2667.19, p < .05, F crit = 3.853). The ANOVA result
indicates there is great variation between gender and the level of importance of having a stable
job to onself, because F value is bigger than F critical, and p value is zero. The finding is not at
random, but statistically significant.
Figure 2.5. The level of importance to oneself of having a stable job males and females.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 31
When data was examined according to how important is it to you that your future life
partner has a stable job, the same Likert scale was used from 1-5. 1 being not important and 5
being very important. Males mean response was 3.16 and females mean response was 4.38. See
figure 2.6 below. This data indicates that among males there is less importance placed on their
partner to have a stable job than females place on theirs. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was
conducted between gender and the level of importance for future life partner to have a stable job.
The analysis concluded there is a variation between mean of importance and gender: (F(1, 810) =
1248.31, p < .05, F crit = 3.853). The ANOVA result indicates there is great variation between
gender and the level of importance for future life partners to have a stable job, because F value is
bigger than F critical, and p value is zero. The finding is not at random, but statistically
significant.
Figure 2.6. The level of importance of future life partners having a stable job for gender
When asked how important is it to you that your future life partner owns their own house,
the same Likert scale was used. Levels of importance were ranked from 1-5, 1 being not
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 32
important and 5 being very important. Males mean response was 2.04 and females mean
response was 3.80. The mode for males was 1, while the mode for females was 5. See Figure 2.7
below. This data indicates that there is a difference among males and females attitudes toward
future life partners owning a house. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted between
gender and the level of importance for future life partner to have a stable job. The analysis
concluded there is a variation between mean of importance and gender: (F(1, 810) = 346.36, p
< .05, F crit = 3.853). The ANOVA result indicates there is great variation between gender and
the level of importance for a future life partner owning a house, because F value is bigger than F
critical, and p value is zero. The finding is not at random, but statistically significant.
Figure 2.7. The importance of future life parnters owning a house for males and females.
When students were asked about the level of importance of their future life partner’s
social status, the same Likert scale was used. Levels of importance were ranked from 1-5, 1
being not important and 5 being very important. Male Chinese college students responded with a
mean of 2.59. Female respondents had a mean of 3.15. See Figure 2.8 below. This data shows
that there is little importance among male respondents and some importance among female
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 33
respondents. Female Chinese college students’ attitudes appear to be more concerned with social
status than males, however social status still remains only somewhat important. A one way
ANOVA was used to test gender and how important a future life partner’s social status is.
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted between gender and the level of importance for
future life partner to have a stable job. The analysis concluded there is a variation between mean
of importance and gender: (F(1, 810) = 464.11, p < .05, F crit = 3.853). The ANOVA result
indicates there is great variation between gender and the level of importance of a future life
partner’s social status, because F value is bigger than F critical, and p value is zero. The finding
is not at random, but statistically significant.
Figure 2.8. The importance of future life partner’s social status for males and females.
Discussion and Conclusion
College students were chosen as a pool of potential marriageable candidates due to the
findings from previous research suggesting marriages occurred at later ages. The occurrence of
marriages at older ages in life to save money and buy housing shows the importance related to
home ownership and materialistic pursuits among marriageable candidates (Hamon & Ingoldsby,
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 34
2003). An overwhelming 98.52% of Chinese college students ranging from 18-31 years old
reported that their relationship status was single, confirming previous research regarding
increased marriage ages due to the promoted family planning policy instituted by Mao Zedong
and later revised during Deng Xiaoping’s rise to leadership (Bullough & Ruan 1994). Deng’s
established and reformed family planning policies influenced people and in particular college
students’ attitudes toward marriage, shifting focus toward materialism as an important
consideration when choosing life partners due to the security/stability that it is associated with
(Coale, 1989; Bell, 1983; Bullough & Ruan, 1994; Ikels, 1996; Zhang, 2005).
Materialism Providing Sense of Happiness and Security/Stability
Findings show that attitudes amongst Chinese college students in Hangzhou, China place
significant importance on materialistic wealth when examining potential life partners and future
marriages. Findings show that a majority of respondents feel that materialism can provide them
with a sense of security/stability. A majority of respondents also feel that materialism can provide
happiness to a marriage/future marriage. Results from the survey confirm previous research
performed that there is indeed a significant importance placed on potential life partners and
marriage for materialistic goods and an elite life style (Kline & Zhang 2009; Podoshen, Lu, &
Junfeng, 2011; Schaefer, Hermans, & Parker, 2004). It is reasonable to conclude that among the
majority of college respondents, materialistic wealth is perceived as being an important
consideration in life partner selection because of its relationship to security/stability in starting a
home life (Liao, 1994; Kline & Zhang, 2009). Without such accommodates, insecurity arises due
to lack of supporting funds in an ever increasingly materialistic environment.
Attitudes towards the Importance of Materialism among Gender
According to the findings regarding gender differences, when examining oneself, levels
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 35
of importance between males and females had some small significance; it is only when they
perceive others as potential life partner choices that the mean level of importance among gender
attitudes change dramatically. According to the findings, female attitudes towards males shows a
higher level of importance placed on males to possess a stable job, house and higher social status
than male attitudes toward females in these categories (Hynie, Lalonde, & Nam, 2006).
According to Hynie, Lalonde and Nam (2006), differences in attitudes among gender show that
there may be some pressures on women to find males with higher social statuses. However, it
should also be noted that this may also indicate that men are pressured to meet the potential
expectations of women regarding social status and material wealth in order to meet standards that
give them potential. Both pressures on males and females appear to be revolved around higher
status and financial security/stability as previous research indicates according to Nam (2006).
Importance of Possessing a Stable Job, House
According to findings, possessing a stable job and owning a house significantly increase
your desirability and potential as a life partner choice according to Chinese college students.
Cars did not seem to have a significant impact on the decision making process and proved to be
less of a concern. While males placed an average level of importance on their future life partners
having a stable job, female respondents placed a significant level of importance. When
examining how important it is for a future life partner to own a house, males again responded
with a lower level of importance, while females responded with a significant level of importance.
Findings indicate that among males, there is less importance placed on females to have a stable
job than females place on males. The survey’s results reflected and proved that there are
significant differences between gender roles and qualities that make a suitable life partner. This
indicates that without certain materialistic possessions a life partner’s suitability as a candidate
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 36
may decrease.
Without any means of financial support, males are perceived as insufficient life partner
choices because they cannot provide the necessary means to take care of the family. Ikel’s (1996)
and Chiu’s (2002) research both support the findings, indicating that the burden and
responsibility of supplying housing falls primarily upon males and their families to provide for.
Previous research supports the results that without major financial support or means, such as a
stable job or home investment, there would be little future for a marriage because it cannot be
supported (Zhang, 2005). These material factors give the future life partner the means of
supporting a future family while providing for the marriage financial security/stability and
ensuring the well-being of the family’s future (Ikels, 1996; Podoshen, & Junfeng, 2011).
Consideration of Diligence
My research did reveal that although attitudes among Chinese college students show a
high level of importance placed on themselves and their potential life partners, the overwhelming
majority will still consider a potential life partner if they work diligently. This disproved that
materialism is the sole key quality and suggests that although materialism is an important factor
in marriage and life partner decisions, it is not the only trait in consideration. Therefore, although
attitudes among gender remain varying when examining a potential life partner, both genders
appear to agree that materialism can be put aside to some degree in light of other potential life
partner characteristics. This discovery is a slight contradiction and therefore makes it difficult to
examine to what extent materialism makes a difference when comparing it to character qualities
such as diligence.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 37
Limitations
Due to the large population in Hangzhou China, a sample size of 406 college student
respondents is insufficient to accurately determine effects of materialism on attitudes toward
marriage and future life partners. By only examining college students attitudes in Hangzhou,
China the research is limited geographically and cannot represent China as a whole. Future
research should focus on varying locations to incorporate a more synthesized approach.
Students’ families’ total monthly income could have been ranked more broadly to give a
better distribution of higher income earnings. The lack of specifics in my survey questions made
my analysis more difficult. There was also too many opportunities with “other” as a choice
which failed to assist in the analysis of those specific questions and could have been better
constructed as to give a more accurate depiction of respondent’s attitudes.
Research regarding materialism and potential life partners is limited and there has been
little research done on how specific materialistic items such as house, car, stable job play a
significant role on college student’s attitudes toward marital decisions and future life partners.
Lastly, the allowed time for this research was limited. Surveys were distributed online via
survey monkey for 3 weeks and were collected to meet deadlines for the Universities data
analysis course. If more time was allowed, more respondents could have been surveyed giving a
more in depth and accurate look into Chinese college student’s perceptions.
Future Research
Future research should consider the other elements that may affect marriage and future
life partner choices. Characteristic traits such as personality were only lightly examined in this
approach. This study sought to examine the impact of larger materialistic influences on Chinese
college student attitudes toward marriage and future life partners and did not include personality
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 38
traits or other variables that may affect or influence Chinese college student decisions. The
purpose of this research is to expose the changing attitudes of China’s newly educated generation
and their interaction with the increasingly materialistic and modern China.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 39
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APPENDICES
Appendix A
Survey (English)
The following anonymous survey is intended for research purposes only. All the information
collected from this survey will be kept confidential. Please follow the instructions and answer
ALL the questions to the best of your knowledge. Participation is voluntary. Thank you for your
time.
1.) What is your gender?
1. Male 2.Female
2.) What is your age?
3.) What is your family's total monthly income?
1. Less Than 1,999 RMB 2. 2,000 - 3,999 RMB 3. 4,000 - 5,999 RMB
4. 6,000 - 7,999 RMB 5. 8,000 - 9,999 RMB 6. More Than 10,000 RMB
4.) What is your current level of completed education?
1. Lower than High School 2. High School 3. Associates Degree
4. Bachelors Degree 5. Masters Degree 6. PhD/Doctorate Degree
5.) What is your current marital status?
1. Married 2. Separated 3. Divorced 4. Widowed 5. Single
6.) What is your current grade level in University?
1. Freshmen 2. Sophomore 3. Junior 4. Senior 5. Post Graduate
6. If OTHER, please specify
7.) Does your family rent or own their place of dwelling?
1. Rents 2. Owns 3. If OTHER, please specify
8.) How many cars does your family own?
9.) How many residences does your family own? (e.g. houses, apartments)
10.) What is the MINIMUM income level you feel your future life partner should make?
1. Less Than 1,999 RMB 2. 2,000 - 3,999 RMB 3. 4,000 - 5,999 RMB
4. 6,000 - 7,999 RMB 5. 8,000 - 9,999 RMB 6. More Than 10,000 RMB
11.) How important is it to you to to own a car?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
12.) How important is it to you to own a house?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 44
4. Important 5. Very Important
13.) How important is it to you to have a stable job?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
14.) How important is it to you that your future life partner owns their own car?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
15.) How important is it to you that your future life partner owns their own house?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
16.) How important is it to you that your future life partner has a stable job?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
17.) How important is it to you to own a house, a car and to have a stable job before you get
married?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
18.) How important is your own social status to you?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
19.) How important is your future life partner’s social class status to you?
1. Not Important 2. A Little Important 3. Somewhat Important
4. Important 5. Very Important
20.) Would you feel comfortable introducing a potential life partner you were dating who has no
materialistic wealth to your friends?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
21.) Would you feel comfortable introducing a potential life partner you were dating who has no
materialistic wealth to your family?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
22.) Would you feel comfortable if your child married a potential life partner with no
materialistic wealth?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
23.) Would you marry someone of a lower social class status than you?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 45
24.) Would you allow your child to marry someone who was of a lower social class status than
them?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
25.) Would you consider a potential life partner if they had no money but worked very
diligently?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
26.) What is the most important MATERIALISTIC quality for a potential life partner to possess?
1. Car 2. House 3. Stable Job 4. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
27.) Do you feel that materialistic wealth can provide you with a sense of security/stability?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
28.) Do you feel that you can live a secure/stable life without materialistic wealth?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
29.) Do you feel that materialistic wealth can bring your marriage/future marriage happiness?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
30.) Do you feel that you can live a successful marriage without materialistic wealth?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
31.) Based on your observations and understanding, do you believe that married couples who
have a lot of materialistic wealth are happier than those who have less materialistic wealth?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
32.) Would you support a friend’s decision to marry someone from a family with no materialistic
wealth?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
33.) Could you live without any materialistic wealth and still be accepted by your friends and
family?
1. Yes 2. No 3. If unsure, please use OTHER to explain
OPTIONAL: If you’d like the researcher to follow up with you about any additional questions
pertaining to this research, please feel free to leave your contact information Name, Phone,
Email, Other. If you have any questions or concerns about this research, please feel free to
contact myself at 13336101241.
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 46
Appendix B
Survey (Chinese)
以下的问卷调查只限于学术研究使用. 本问卷收集的所有信息将保密. 请按照指令尽力问
答所有问题. 参与此次问卷调查与否是自愿的. 谢谢您的合作.
1.) 您的性别是?
1. 男 2. 女
2.) 您的年龄是?
3.) 您的家庭月度总收入是多少?
1. 少于 1999 RMB 2. 2,000 - 3,999 RMB 3. 4,000 - 5,999 RMB
4. 6,000 - 7,999 RMB 5. 8,000 - 9,999 RMB 6. 超过 10,000 RMB
4.) 您目前完成的最高学历是?
1. 高中以下学历 2. 高中学历 3. 专科学历
4. 本科学历 5. 硕士学历 6. 博士学历
5.) 您的婚姻是现状?
1. 已婚 2. 分居 3. 离婚 4. 丧偶 5. 单身
6.) 您目前是大学几年级?
1. 年级 2. 二年级 3. 三年级 4. 四年级 5. 研究生
6. 如果是其他情况,请说明
7.) 您的家庭住房性质属于租赁住房还是私有住房?
1. 租赁 2. 私人所有 3. 如果是其他情况,请说明
8.) 您的家庭拥有几辆车?
9.) 您的家庭拥有几处房产?(例如:别墅、公寓)
10.) 您认为您未来生活伴侣(爱人)最低的月收入应该是多少?
1. 少于 1999 RMB 2. 2,000 - 3,999 RMB 3. 4,000 - 5,999 RMB
4. 6,000 - 7,999 RMB 5. 8,000 - 9,999 RMB 6. 超过 10,000 RMB
11.) 拥有一辆车对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
12.) 拥有自己的房子对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 47
13.) 有一个稳定的工作对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
14.) 你未来的爱人拥有自己的车子对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
15.) 您未来的爱人拥有自己的房子对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
16.) 您未来的爱人拥有一个稳定的工作对您来说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
17.) 对您来说,结婚前有房, 有车, 有稳定工作有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
18.) 您的社会地位对你来您说有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
19.) 您未来爱人的社会地位对您有多重要?
1. 不重要 2. 有点重要 3. 比较重要 4. 重要 5. 非常重要
20.) 如果你的男朋友(女朋友)经济条件不富裕,当您向朋友介绍他(她)时,您会觉
得自在吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
21.) 如果您未来的生活伴侣(爱人)经济条件不富裕,当您向家人介绍他(她)时, 您会觉得
自在吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
22.) 如果您的子女与一个物质基础较差的对象结婚,您会觉得自在吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
23.) 您会与比您社会地位低的人结婚吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
24.) 您会允许自己的子女与比自己社会地位低的人结婚吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
25.) 您会考虑和一个不富裕但勤奋工作的人结婚吗?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
26.) 您认为未来另一半最重要的物质条件是什么?
EFFECTS OF MATERIALISM ON COLLEGE STUDENTS MARITAL CHOICES 48
1. 汽车 2. 房子 3. 稳定的工作 4. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
27.) 您是否认为物质财富能给您带来安全感?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
28.) 在没有物质财富的前提下,您是否认为您可以过上安定的生活?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
29.) 您是否认为物质财富可以为您的婚姻带来幸福?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
30.) 您是否认为即使没有物质财富您仍然可以拥有一个美满的婚姻?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
31.) 基础你的观察和认识,你是否认为有钱的夫妻比没那么有钱的夫妻更幸福?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
32.) 你是否会支持自己的朋友和一个来自经济条件差的人结婚?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
33.) 如果没有钱,你是否会依然被你的朋友和家庭接受?
1. 是 2. 否 3. 如果不确定,请在 "其他" 选项中说明
备注: 如果您愿意让研究人员对关于此研究的后续问题进行跟踪调查,请留下你您的联系
方式: 姓名, 手机, 电子邮箱, 其他. 如果你您对此项研究有任何疑问,请联系本人,手机
号码为. 13336101241.