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Content Analysis of Family Policy Instruments to Promote the Sustainable Development of Families in China from 1989–2019

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  • Qi Yang

    (Research Institute for Population Science, School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China)

  • Jianyuan Huang

    (Research Institute for Population Science, School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China)

Abstract

Family policy involves a combination of policies enacted to address various family problems and improve the sustainable development of families. Evaluating family policy by considering policy instruments is conducive to optimizing policy allocation and promoting this sustainable development. This study constructs a two-dimensional analysis framework of policy instruments and policy themes and employs content analysis to conduct a quantitative analysis of 112 family policy texts issued by the Chinese government. The results show that the policy instruments used in China are not effective. The study also shows that environmental policy instruments are most frequently used, but the internal structure is unbalanced; supply-side policy instruments are moderately used; and the use of demand-side policy instruments is obviously limited. Policy themes focus excessively on “safeguard measures” and pay less attention to “parental welfare and protection”. Overall, China’s family policy is still in its infancy, as it focuses mainly on assistance and remains incomplete. Therefore, the parties responsible for the formulation of family policy should adjust and optimize the combinations of policy instruments that are employed are required to consider “general welfare”, and promote the two-dimensional integration of policy instruments and policy themes.

Suggested Citation

  • Qi Yang & Jianyuan Huang, 2020. "Content Analysis of Family Policy Instruments to Promote the Sustainable Development of Families in China from 1989–2019," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(2), pages 1-20, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:2:p:693-:d:310089
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Xiaojie Yao & Yuan Hu & Huaping Gong & Dongyou Chen, 2021. "Characteristics and Evolution of China’s Industry–University–Research Collaboration to Promote the Sustainable Development: Based on Policy Text Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(23), pages 1-18, November.
    2. Yingkai Yin & Hongxin Ma & Zhenni Wu & Aobo Yue, 2023. "How Does China Build Its Fintech Strategy? A Perspective of Policy Evolution," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(13), pages 1-21, June.
    3. Yuting Hu & Xinyu Ma, 2023. "Research on the Structure and Characteristics of Adolescent Physical Health Policy in China Based on Policy Text Tool," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(11), pages 1-17, May.

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