Gender, Modernity, and Male Migrant Workers in China

Gender, Modernity and Male Migrant Workers in China: Becoming a 'Modern' Man (Routledge Contemporary China Series Book 99)

by Xiaodong Lin

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	928 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

Migration is a global phenomenon that has a profound impact on individuals and societies. In China, the large-scale migration of rural workers to urban areas in recent decades has had a significant impact on gender relations and identities. This article explores the experiences of male migrant workers in China, focusing on how their migration experiences shape their gender identities and relationships.

Drawing on in-depth interviews with male migrant workers in Beijing, this article examines how they negotiate traditional and modern gender norms, and how their experiences of migration impact their sense of masculinity. The article argues that migration can be a transformative experience for male migrant workers, leading to both challenges and opportunities for redefining their gender roles and identities.

Traditional Gender Norms and Masculinity in China

Traditional gender norms in China are deeply rooted in Confucian values, which emphasize male dominance and female submissiveness. Men are expected to be the breadwinners and protectors of the family, while women are expected to be responsible for domestic tasks and childrearing. These norms are reflected in the Chinese language, where the characters for "man" (男) and "woman" (女) are often used to denote strength and weakness, respectively.

For many male migrant workers, migration represents a departure from these traditional gender norms. In their home villages, they may have been the primary breadwinners and decision-makers in their families. However, in the city, they often find themselves in low-paid, precarious jobs, and they may have to rely on their wives or girlfriends for financial support. This can lead to a sense of emasculation and a loss of status.

Negotiating Gender Norms in the City

In the city, male migrant workers encounter a more diverse range of gender norms than they did in their home villages. They may come into contact with women who are more independent and assertive than their wives or girlfriends back home. This can lead to a questioning of traditional gender roles and a desire to adopt more egalitarian relationships.

However, changing gender norms can be a difficult and challenging process. Male migrant workers may face resistance from their families and communities, who may disapprove of their changing attitudes towards gender. They may also face discrimination from employers and colleagues who hold traditional views on gender roles.

Migration and Masculinity

Migration can also have a significant impact on male migrant workers' sense of masculinity. In their home villages, they may have been respected and admired as the breadwinners and protectors of their families. However, in the city, they may find themselves in a subordinate position, both in the workplace and in their personal relationships. This can lead to a loss of self-esteem and a sense of alienation.

However, migration can also provide male migrant workers with new opportunities to define their masculinity. In the city, they may be able to access education and training, which can help them to improve their job prospects and their earning potential. They may also be able to develop new social networks and relationships, which can provide them with a sense of belonging and support.

Migration is a complex and transformative experience that can have a profound impact on gender identities and relationships. For male migrant workers in China, migration can lead to both challenges and opportunities for redefining their gender roles and identities. They may face resistance from their families and communities, but they may also be able to access new education and training opportunities, and develop new social networks and relationships. Ultimately, the impact of migration on male migrant workers' gender identities and relationships is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires further research.

Gender, Modernity and Male Migrant Workers in China: Becoming a 'Modern' Man (Routledge Contemporary China Series Book 99)

by Xiaodong Lin

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	928 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE