Breaking the Taboo: The Stigma of Working in China's Adult Goods Industry
The recent influx of social media posts on Weibo has brought to light a sensitive topic that has sparked a heated debate among netizens. The story revolves around young individuals who have chosen to work in the adult goods industry, but are hesitant to share their occupation with their families, fearing judgment and criticism.
10 July 2024
The conversation began with a post from a user who shared their experience of working in the adult goods industry. The user, known as Xiaolin, had been searching for a job for half a year before finally landing a position at an adult goods company. However, when she told her mother about her new job, her mother was initially silent, before asking her if she could find another job that wouldn't be subject to gossip and ridicule.
This post resonated with many users, who shared their own experiences of working in the industry. One user, Li Yui, shared that she had been working in the adult goods industry for nearly a year, but only told her family and friends that she was working in "sales," without revealing the specifics of her job. She cited that even among her peers, there was a stigma attached to working in the industry, and that many people would not understand or approve of her occupation.
The discussion has sparked a wider conversation about the societal attitudes towards the adult goods industry and the stigma surrounding it. Many users have expressed their frustration and disappointment at the lack of understanding and acceptance from their families and society at large. One user lamented that despite the fact that the industry provides a legitimate source of employment, it is still viewed as taboo and shameful.
Some users have pointed out that the stigma surrounding the industry is rooted in the conservative values of the older generation. They argue that the lack of understanding and acceptance is a result of the generational gap and the differing values and attitudes between the older and younger generations.
Others have expressed their hope that one day, the stigma surrounding the industry will dissipate, and that people will be able to discuss their occupation freely without fear of judgment. One user commented that it's ironic that China has a population of over 1.4 billion, yet people are still hesitant to discuss sexual topics openly.
The conversation has also touched on the issue of job expectations and the pressure to find a "respectable" job. Many users have noted that in the current employment market, finding a job is a significant achievement, and that parents often place a high value on certain professions such as teaching and medicine.
The debate has highlighted the complexities of the issue, with some users arguing that the stigma surrounding the industry is a result of the lack of understanding and education, while others believe that it is a deeply ingrained cultural attitude that will take time to change.
As one user succinctly put it, "Even though we say we shouldn't feel ashamed, the reality is that many families don't allow children to talk openly about sex-related topics. Even if parents don't say anything, the gossip and criticism from relatives and friends will put pressure on them." The discussion has sparked a necessary conversation about the need to change societal attitudes towards the adult goods industry and to promote greater understanding and acceptance.
The conversation has also raised questions about the role of education and awareness in promoting change. Many users have expressed the need for greater education and awareness about the industry, and for a more open and honest discussion about sexual topics.
As the conversation continues, it is clear that the stigma surrounding the adult goods industry is a complex issue that will require a multifaceted approach to address. However, by sharing their experiences and perspectives, the users on Weibo have taken a crucial step towards sparking a necessary conversation about the need for change and greater understanding.