1990s - Free courtship began to prevail

A couple married in the 1990's [File photo]

Chinese people began to take more initiative in looking for love as society became more prosperous. According to a survey, more than 50 percent of young Chinese wanted to find their own partners rather than fitting in with an arranged marriage, evidence of liberalization in attitudes.

It was not so shameful for couples to break up and apply for divorce. People were more inclined to keep looking for their ideal partner.

As Chinese society became more open and enjoyed more prosperity, people began to betray their partners. Many wealthy farmers in southern provinces had concubines, and some young girls had a relationship with rich married businessmen. These marital problems threatened the social fabric.