Modeling Multi-Subject Interaction in “Early Love” within the Framework of Labeling Theory

Early love is a unique Chinese term. What hides behind it is China’s unique view of education and marriage, as well as China’s unique model of family and campus interaction. This paper adopts a qualitative research method to explore the origins of the word “early love” and construct a model of multi-subject interaction in early love within the frameworks of symbolic interactionism and labeling theory. Firstly, the term “early love”, as a discursive practice that resists adolescent romance, arises from specific temporal and spatial factor during 1960s in China. Secondly, “early love” is characterized as a “joint action” accomplished through the interactions of various parties involved—parents and children, teachers and students, and students and peers—each operating under their respective situational definitions. This paper provides a new perspective on the study of early love and offers theoretical support for scientific interventions aimed at promoting adolescent love and safeguarding adolescent mental health.