The Three-child Policy and Chinese Women: Career Development and Family Responsibility Choice under Patriarchal Culture

Abstract

The impact of China’s three-child policy on women’s career development and family responsibilities is explored in this article. Research findings indicate that in a society deeply rooted in patriarchal culture, Chinese women face workplace discrimination and reduced career opportunities due to childbirth while pursuing their professional development. By comparing the professional and family roles of women in regions with profound patriarchal influence and economically developed culturally open areas, the article reveals the impact of regional cultural differences on women’s career development. The research results show that women in economically developed areas have more opportunities and support for career development, whereas women in regions deeply influenced by Confucian culture are more constrained by traditional gender roles and family responsibilities. The novelty of this study is that it demonstrates that marital equality and family support significantly influence women’s career and family responsibilities, a factor that has been overlooked in previous research. Based on these findings, the article proposes a series of policy recommendations aimed at promoting gender equality and supporting women’s dual roles in both career and family life, providing empirical research foundations for government departments and academia.