Dealing with double standards

Feng Yuan, a senior research fellow and activist on gender equality, said that the image of first lady Peng is an extension of conventional norms of a good housewife.

"It fulfills people's expectation for a woman to be not only a helper for her husband but also successful in her own right," she said of Peng, who rose to fame as a contemporary folk singer in the People's Liberation Army.

However, Feng also said it is unfair to apply double standards when assessing men and women. "When we say a woman is successful, it is in terms of both her family and career. But a man is only judged as successful based on his career achievements," Feng said. "If a woman is still unmarried at a certain age or without a child, their life is considered incomplete."

Shao agrees, saying that modern society defines a man by his "economic power."

"This is why most men believe they don't need to learn how to manage their marriage. Most would rather spend their time making money," Shao said.

Xiong Bingqi, deputy director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, said that the rise of finishing schools and empowerment courses for women shows that China's education market is diversifying.

"It is common that women, based on their social status, have specific rights and requirements for education. Such courses should therefore be encouraged," he said. "Whether we provide education for migrant workers or the wealthy second generation, both are worthwhile pursuits because everyone is valuable in society."

Ho said the Chinese people's higher expectations related to quality of life and their desire to earn the respect of others were all signs of social progress.

"We are very proud of our first lady Peng Liyuan because we are proud to have her represent our country," said Ho.

"A man should feel the same about his wife; to be proud of her assisting him and their family."