Group 1 - The article discusses the growing trend among young people in China to seek alternative forms of relationships, such as finding a "marriage buddy" to satisfy familial expectations without emotional attachment [5][12][15] - A survey by the Chinese Academy of Sciences indicates that 34% of the post-95 generation no longer view marriage as a given, with 51.8% of college students deeming marriage unimportant, particularly among women [5][12] - The protagonist, referred to as "Xiaomai," expresses that the pressure from her parents to marry has led her to seek a pragmatic solution that allows her to maintain her independence while appeasing her family's traditional views [4][11][18] Group 2 - Xiaomai's experience reflects a broader societal shift where marriage and childbearing are transitioning from being seen as mandatory life milestones to optional choices [5][19] - The concept of a "marriage buddy" is framed as a partnership based on mutual understanding and shared responsibilities rather than romantic love, emphasizing the importance of compatibility in values and lifestyle [12][16] - The article highlights the generational gap in perspectives on marriage, with younger individuals prioritizing personal freedom and career aspirations over traditional family expectations [10][20][23]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of young individuals in China seeking "marriage partners" or "marriage buddies" as a response to familial pressure to marry, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards marriage and personal autonomy [4][10]. Group 1: Personal Experiences and Societal Pressures - The protagonist, referred to as Xiaomai, faced persistent marriage pressure from her parents since her twenties, leading to frequent arguments and emotional distress [5][7][12]. - Xiaomai's parents, influenced by traditional values, imposed their views on her, disregarding her personal preferences and desires in choosing a partner [6][12][17]. - The increasing pressure from her parents culminated in her decision to find a "marriage buddy" to satisfy familial expectations while maintaining her independence [9][19]. Group 2: Changing Perspectives on Marriage - A survey by the Chinese Academy of Sciences revealed that 34% of post-95s no longer view marriage as a necessity, with 51.8% of college students deeming it unimportant, particularly among women [9]. - Xiaomai's approach to marriage reflects a broader trend where marriage is transitioning from a compulsory life milestone to a more optional choice, with many young people prioritizing personal freedom over traditional expectations [9][10]. Group 3: The Concept of a "Marriage Buddy" - Xiaomai defines a "marriage buddy" as a practical partnership based on mutual agreement rather than romantic love, emphasizing shared values and responsibilities [21][24]. - The arrangement includes maintaining independence in personal lives while fulfilling familial obligations, such as participating in family events and ceremonies [21][23]. - Xiaomai's experience in finding a suitable "marriage buddy" highlights the importance of compatibility in lifestyle and values, rather than emotional attachment [24][25]. Group 4: Responsibility and Future Considerations - Xiaomai emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their choices, acknowledging the importance of being able to handle the risks associated with unconventional arrangements [32]. - The article concludes with Xiaomai planning to formalize her arrangement, including discussions about living arrangements and potential future family planning, indicating a pragmatic approach to modern relationships [32].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concept of finding a "marriage buddy" as a solution for individuals facing familial pressure to marry, allowing them to fulfill parental expectations while maintaining personal independence [6][21]. Group 1: Personal Experiences and Family Dynamics - The individual faced persistent pressure from parents to marry, leading to frequent arguments and emotional distress [3][4]. - Despite not being opposed to marriage, the individual struggled to align personal desires with parental expectations, often feeling misunderstood by their family [5][12]. - The individual decided to seek a "marriage buddy" to satisfy parental demands without compromising personal freedom, highlighting a shift in societal views on marriage [6][8]. Group 2: Changing Perspectives on Marriage - A significant portion of the younger generation, particularly those born in the 1990s, no longer view marriage as a necessity, with 34% of this demographic considering it non-essential [6]. - The article emphasizes that marriage is transitioning from a compulsory life milestone to an optional choice, reflecting broader societal changes [6][23]. Group 3: The Concept of a "Marriage Buddy" - The "marriage buddy" is defined as a partnership based on mutual agreement rather than romantic love, focusing on compatibility and shared responsibilities [15][22]. - The individual outlines specific criteria for selecting a "marriage buddy," including health, emotional stability, and a shared understanding of independence [15][17]. - The relationship with the "marriage buddy" is characterized as a supportive alliance, where both parties respect each other's personal space and commitments [19][22]. Group 4: Future Considerations and Responsibilities - The individual plans to formalize the arrangement with a marriage agreement, ensuring clarity on roles and responsibilities, including financial aspects and family interactions [26]. - There is an acknowledgment of potential future challenges, such as family expectations regarding children, and a willingness to navigate these issues collaboratively with the "marriage buddy" [26].