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Unraveling Youth Indebtedness in China: A Case Study Based on the “Debtors Avengers” Community on Douban

Author

Listed:
  • Junan Zhang

    (Social Work Department, College of Humanities and Law, Shanghai Business School, Shanghai 201400, China)

  • Dong Liu

    (Social Work Department, College of Humanities and Law, Shanghai Business School, Shanghai 201400, China)

Abstract

Over-indebtedness is an increasingly serious issue among young people in China. Using Atlas.ti, this study analyzes textual data from the online community “Debtors Avengers” on Douban.com, applying a combined framework of life cycle and credit liberalization hypotheses. The findings reveal that youth indebtedness is not solely driven by irrational consumer behavior but is closely linked to economic activities during specific life stages. Structurally, it reflects sociofinancial digitization and normalized credit use. Factors such as life circumstances, financial literacy, labor market instability, and public safety risks contribute to a “debt spiral”. Addressing these challenges requires the refinement of financial policies, enhanced education, and intervention in financial aggression.

Suggested Citation

  • Junan Zhang & Dong Liu, 2024. "Unraveling Youth Indebtedness in China: A Case Study Based on the “Debtors Avengers” Community on Douban," IJFS, MDPI, vol. 12(4), pages 1-20, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijfss:v:12:y:2024:i:4:p:113-:d:1520304
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Campbell, Jeffrey R. & Hercowitz, Zvi, 2009. "Welfare implications of the transition to high household debt," Journal of Monetary Economics, Elsevier, vol. 56(1), pages 1-16, January.
    4. Gathergood, John, 2012. "Self-control, financial literacy and consumer over-indebtedness," Journal of Economic Psychology, Elsevier, vol. 33(3), pages 590-602.
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