Youth and Space in Mutual Design: Escape and Renewal in China’s Youth Retirement Homes
(2025) SOCM05 20251Sociology
- Abstract
- This thesis examines the emerging phenomenon of youth retirement homes in China as a unique social space where young people temporarily withdraw from high-pressure urban environments. Through qualitative case study methodology, incorporating in-depth interviews and participant observation, the research investigates residents’ experiences, spatial practices, and identity reconstruction. The study shows that youth retirement homes are not simply places to escape reality. For many residents, they offer a chance to pause, rethink their current path, and gradually regain a sense of control over their time and choices. Through this temporary retreat, young people try new ways of living, think clearly about their intentions, and gain renewed... (More)
- This thesis examines the emerging phenomenon of youth retirement homes in China as a unique social space where young people temporarily withdraw from high-pressure urban environments. Through qualitative case study methodology, incorporating in-depth interviews and participant observation, the research investigates residents’ experiences, spatial practices, and identity reconstruction. The study shows that youth retirement homes are not simply places to escape reality. For many residents, they offer a chance to pause, rethink their current path, and gradually regain a sense of control over their time and choices. Through this temporary retreat, young people try new ways of living, think clearly about their intentions, and gain renewed energy for mainstream life. These spaces foster more equal and authentic social interactions than those typically experienced in urban settings, while maintaining a balance between openness and closure. Residents express anxiety about future uncertainties that reflect broader socioeconomic conditions, yet commercial imperatives and soft disciplines limit the spatial resistance offered by youth retirement homes. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how young people cope with social change through spatial practices. (Less)
- Popular Abstract
- In recent years, a new social phenomenon has emerged in China called “youth retirement homes(青年养老院).” Despite the name, these are not care homes for the elderly but rather quiet, low-cost living spaces where young people take a break from the pressures of city life, careers, and family expectations. These spaces are often found in scenic or rural areas, offering activities like meditation, farming, and shared meals.
This study takes a closer look at how young residents experience these spaces. Based on interviews and direct observations at a youth retirement home in Zhejiang Province, the research finds that these homes are not places for young people to “give up” on life but offer a chance to slow down, reflect, and explore different... (More) - In recent years, a new social phenomenon has emerged in China called “youth retirement homes(青年养老院).” Despite the name, these are not care homes for the elderly but rather quiet, low-cost living spaces where young people take a break from the pressures of city life, careers, and family expectations. These spaces are often found in scenic or rural areas, offering activities like meditation, farming, and shared meals.
This study takes a closer look at how young residents experience these spaces. Based on interviews and direct observations at a youth retirement home in Zhejiang Province, the research finds that these homes are not places for young people to “give up” on life but offer a chance to slow down, reflect, and explore different ways of living. Many residents use this time to think about their future, regain a sense of control, and reconnect with what really matters to them.
Rather than viewing youth retirement homes as simple escapes, the study suggests they are thoughtful responses to a rapidly changing society. They allow young people to step away temporarily, not to withdraw permanently, but to return with renewed understandings. The findings offer a fresh perspective on how today’s youth are quietly reshaping their lives creatively and intentionally. (Less)
Please use this url to cite or link to this publication:
http://lup.lub.lu.se/student-papers/record/9204218
- author
- Yao, Miaomiao LU
- supervisor
-
- Bo Isenberg LU
- organization
- course
- SOCM05 20251
- year
- 2025
- type
- H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
- subject
- keywords
- youth retirement homes, Chinese youth, space, spatial practices, heterotopia, risk and fear, strategic retreat
- language
- English
- id
- 9204218
- date added to LUP
- 2025-06-23 21:58:59
- date last changed
- 2025-06-23 21:58:59
@misc{9204218,
abstract = {{This thesis examines the emerging phenomenon of youth retirement homes in China as a unique social space where young people temporarily withdraw from high-pressure urban environments. Through qualitative case study methodology, incorporating in-depth interviews and participant observation, the research investigates residents’ experiences, spatial practices, and identity reconstruction. The study shows that youth retirement homes are not simply places to escape reality. For many residents, they offer a chance to pause, rethink their current path, and gradually regain a sense of control over their time and choices. Through this temporary retreat, young people try new ways of living, think clearly about their intentions, and gain renewed energy for mainstream life. These spaces foster more equal and authentic social interactions than those typically experienced in urban settings, while maintaining a balance between openness and closure. Residents express anxiety about future uncertainties that reflect broader socioeconomic conditions, yet commercial imperatives and soft disciplines limit the spatial resistance offered by youth retirement homes. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how young people cope with social change through spatial practices.}},
author = {{Yao, Miaomiao}},
language = {{eng}},
note = {{Student Paper}},
title = {{Youth and Space in Mutual Design: Escape and Renewal in China’s Youth Retirement Homes}},
year = {{2025}},
}