The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption

Bing Zhang

doi:10.47297/wspdecWSP2515-797306.20261007

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The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption

Volume 10, Issue 7

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The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption
The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption
Hebei University, International College, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
Vol. 10, Issue 7, Pages: 30-41(2026)
Published：30 July 2026
DOI：10.47297/wspdecWSP2515-797306.20261007
Accepted：

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Bing Zhang.The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption[J].Development Economics of China,2026,10(07):30-41.
DOI：

Bing Zhang.The Digital Compromise of Chinese Youth and Emotional Compensation in Short Video Consumption[J].Development Economics of China,2026,10(07):30-41. DOI： 10.47297/wspdecWSP2515-797306.20261007.

摘要

Abstract

Amid the profound infiltration of digital media

short videos have become the dominant form of online cultural consumption among Chinese youth. Taking digital compromise and emotional compensation as core perspectives

this paper focuses on young people aged 20–29 and systematically examines their behavioral logic and emotional needs in an algorithmic environment. The study finds that youth actively achieve digital compromise through three practices

scenario adaptation

strategic appropriation

and normative compliance

balancing algorithmic rules

social relationships

and self-needs. Meanwhile

short videos fulfill emotional compensation via emotional catharsis

targeted comfort

and collective resonance

effectively filling the psychological gaps caused by real-life pressures. Driven by each other

short videos evolve from leisure activities into a crucial means for youth to cope with real anxiety and construct digital identities. This research reveals the deep psychological and social mechanisms of youth digital adaptation

enriches the localized theory of algorithmic intimacy

and provides practical implications for guiding rational media use and protecting youth mental health.

关键词

Keywords

references

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