Clinical aspects of traditional and contemporary narratives of femininity and masculinity in intimate relationships in China today: Jungian and post-Jungian perspectives

To understand and deal with difficulties of contemporary marriages in China, I investigate the notions of masculinity and femininity as they are related to intimate relationships, from depth psychological perspectives. I argue that these notions are not universal, but are, rather, culturally/socially assigned. By interviewing Chinese couples and amplifying a Chinese opera - Peony Pavilion - I point out that, in China, the feminine and the masculine aspects of emotional behaviours are not as clearly divided and opposite to each other as in the West. I address how sexuality and aggression have played an active role in romantic relationships and fostered the process of individuation for both men and women, and how relationships with one’s own mother and father have influenced this process. An examination of clinical materials offers further proof of these arguments. My conclusion is that the Chinese psyche today is experiencing a transition from the compliance of collectivism to the awareness of individuation, and that the rediscovery of the notion of integrity will make young Chinese people independent individuals and bring a new approach to their marriage.