Search

Suspension and Self-Consistency: the Generative Mechanisms and Identity Dilemmas of Pseudo-Middle-Class Practices among Young University Students

Author(s)

Caiyi Zhang

Affiliation(s)

School of Political Science and Law, University of Jinan, Shandong, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

In the current era of social transformation and the deep integration of digital media, young college students face a profound tension between the need to enhance their cultural capital and real-world economic constraints. This paper focuses on the mimetic middle-class lifestyle practices of this group. Drawing on social construction theory and subcultural studies, and employing a mixed qualitative research methodology combining online ethnography and in-depth interviews, it explores the mechanisms underlying the formation of their group identity and the inherent dilemmas they face. The study identifies three primary mechanisms of formation: reconstructing a sense of psychological deservingness through taste anticipation and strategic substitutes ; delineating the boundaries of peer taste through "symbolic display in digital spaces"; and achieving "spiritual coherence" with the self and the environment through the ritualistic nature of micro-daily life. However, this identity, built upon symbolic compensation, exhibits a profound sense of "suspension" and gives rise to a threefold identity dilemma: a structural disconnect between digital highlights and real-life speechlessness; the dissolution of agency within consumer echo chambers under algorithmic discipline; and psychological strain resulting from symbolic dependence. This paper emphasizes the need to view young people's micro-level self-consistency practices dialectically and to guide college students in transforming psychological adaptation into a practical foundation for real life.

Keywords

Mimetic Middle Class; Suspension; Psychological Coherence; Identity; Class Experience

References

[1]Chen, W., & Niu, F. (2026). The emotional consumption phenomenon among Gen Z youth: Manifestations, causes, and guidance. Theory Guide, (2), 144-151. [2]Li, J., & Pu, J. (2026). "Electronic analgesia": Manifestations, causes, and adaptation paths of youth digital emotional relief practices. Journal of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (Social Sciences Edition), 40(1), 113-121. [3]Li, H., & Liu, X. (2025). The origin, manifestations, and risks of Gen Z emotional consumption in the "Guzi Economy". Youth Journal, (6), 92-97. [4]Li, Z., & Tan, J. (2026). Concrete manifestations, real concerns, and guidance paths of Gen Z emotional value consumption. Journal of Langfang Teachers College (Social Sciences Edition), 42(3), 121-128. [5]Wang, Y., & Lu, W. (2025). Addiction and withdrawal from "emotional companions": A grounded theory study on Gen Z plush doll consumption. Journal of Taiyuan University (Social Sciences Edition), 26(5), 77-86. [6]You, Z., & Chen, X. (2025). How emotion should be unboxed: A cultural perspective on youth "emotional value". Inner Mongolia Social Sciences, 46(4), 171-179. [7]Zhao, Y. (2025). Paying for "emotional value": An analysis of new trends in youth consumption. China Economic & Trade Guide, (11), 66-67. [8]Ma, C. (2025). Ideological landscape, risks, and prevention of Gen Z emotional consumption. Ideological & Theoretical Education, (6), 105-111. [9]Mei, K. (2025). "Love arises without knowing where it comes from": Understanding emotional value and emotional consumption practices among youth. Social Sciences Forum, (3), 192-209. [10]Sun, B., & Yang, X. (2025). The generation, concerns, and guidance of youth emotional value consumption. Youth Journal, (1), 98-103