BBCJun 13, 2026, 10:05 PM

Vincent's parents 'never say he's good enough' - so he turned to a middle-aged couple online

Young Chinese adults are turning to "virtual parents" on social media for emotional support and encouragement their own families don't provide, a trend reflecting generational tensions between ambitious youth and parents focused on stability and achievement.

An illustration showing a pair of couple going live on their social media channel, who are surrounded by sad-looking young people handing their hearts and some flowers to the influencers
An illustration showing a pair of couple going live on their social media channel, who are surrounded by sad-looking young people handing their hearts and some flowers to the influencersPhotograph: BBC
2 million33
Read original at BBC

Share this story

Send it to someone who should see it.

0 comments

Sign in to join the discussion.