A tender woman, or an independent one, which one would you prefer? A recent research shows that most people would choose the latter.

This type of woman is called a nühanzi (“tough woman”). Experts believe these characteristics have social and psychological roots among young females in China. Su Hao’s friends all call her a tough woman, because she can finish tough tasks usually carried out by men. For example, she carries 10-litre water to her dormitory on the 5th floor. “I depend on no one but myself,” she says.

According to a recent survey by China Youth Daily, tough women have become rather common in society. Of the 21,265 respondents, 78.5 percent said they are familiar with a tough woman. About 50 percent said they like women with tough characteristics, while less than 29 percent expressed the opposite view.

Why are tough women gaining popularity? Shen Meng, a psychological consultant, believes the fierce competition in society is contributing to this trend. “Women are often in a disadvantaged position compared to men,” Shen says. “In order to survive, they have to be independent, strong and tough.”

Liu Xiaolin, professor of psychology at Wuhan Mental Health Center, believes tough women are brought up this way. They are often on close relationship with their fathers, who teach their daughters to be brave and decisive,” he says. As a result, these women are more likely to be psychologically healthy and more tolerant to stress, according to Liu.

Though Liu believes that this is a good trend, Hu Shenzhi, a psychologist at the Guangdong Sunflower Counseling Center, says the popularity of tough woman indicates an unclear line between gender identities, which can lead to relationship problems. “Some women with characteristics that differ from the traditional female image may have a difficult time finding Mr Right,” he says.“Even if they get married, their manly characteristics might cause family conflicts.

4. Which of the followings does NOT belong to the characteristics of a tough woman?

A. She is independent of others in daily life.

B. She is soft and tender to others.

C. She is more tolerant to stress.

D. She can solve problems usually for men.

5. How many respondents like tough women?

A. About 10,600.              B. About 16,700.

C. 21,265.              D. About 6,200.

6. Why are there more tough women nowadays?

A. Because tough women are more lovely.

B. Because more women want to be independent.

C. Because girls often love fathers more.

D. Because of the fierce competition in society.

7. What problems may tough women have in their life?

A. It’s difficult for them to be friends.

B. They often suffer gender confusion.

C. They may have difficulty with marriage.

D. They have different characteristics form traditional female images.