This study discusses how the aspects of monetary and material supports in the mutual assistance and support systems shifted in China at the time of drastic change of economic and marketing systems. We conducted questionnaire research in 1998, trying to portray the difference before and after the change. The analytical methods as well as our conclusions are described below :
1) Patriarchal “jia” system : It appears that the traditional value of filial duty has been revived, centering around the tripartite pillars of Parents, Children, and Brothers not living together.
2) Stronger blood ties : Monetary and material help rather than moral assistance seemed to have increased, strengthening blood ties centering around Parents, Children and Borthers not living together.
3) In terms of work classification, strong correspondence was noted only for monetary matters.
4) Females as a whole seemed more dependent; their relations with friends seemed to have undergone some change so far as the subject matter is concerned.
5) Social status : Those in higher hierarchies seemed more advantageous. Those in lower hierarchies seemed less advantageous, but they were receiving more assistance from friends.
6) Financial status : Work environment seemed to have worsened even for those in higher hierarchies. Noteworthy was the deterioration of work environment for middle class females and low class males.
