A sociologist by training, I conduct research on social and demographic issues and how people spend their time. My research methods include demographic analysis, public opinion survey, and time use analysis. I care about the well-being of people in all walks of life. I have a special interest in time use – because time is the ultimate equalizer. Rich or poor, young or old, we all have the same 24 hours in a day.

My research has captured some of the most intriguing changes in the U.S. society, such as the rise of breadwinner moms, the decline of marriage, the rise of interracial marriage, the return of multi-generational family household, young adults’ living arrangement, and well-being of the elderly. I have been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, NPR and numerous other media outlets. Most recently, I was invited to the United Nations expert group meeting for family policies and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda in May, 2016 and was honored to give a talk on aging and family issues for the UN’s international family day.

Studying social and demographic issues is my longtime passion. I received a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Maryland, where I studied with late Dr. Suzanne Bianchi, and published academic research in top sociological journals such as American Journal of Sociology  and Journal of Marriage and Family. My Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees were in Sociology as well. Before coming to the U.S in 2000, I worked at Shaanxi Academy of Social Sciences in Xi’an, researching demographic issues in China.

Why this blog? I wanted to use it as a platform to connect with more readers. I believe research should serve the public ultimately. I would love to hear your voice on these important issues. So please don’t hesitate to leave your comments. You can also reach me on twitter @wendyrwang. For more details on my background and professional experience, see my Linkedin profile.

If you read Chinese, a sister blog (时空生活)  is also available.

Updated 1/1/2024:

It’s been seven years since I last updated this blog. Life is getting busier, and I drifted away from writing personal blogs. As I revisited my “About Me” section, I noticed some progress: Instead of merely “being quoted” in media outlets, I now have authored and coauthored op-ed articles for the nation’s most prominent media outlets, such as WSJ, NYTimes, and the Atlantic, to name a few. I can now officially call myself a writer!

As a part of my New Year’s resolution for this year, I have decided to revive this blog. I’ve come to the realization that writing and research are true passions for me. It brings me peace. So, from now on, I will write whenever the inspiration strikes. This will be a personal space where I share insights from my research and observations in life, hoping that it will not only benefit me, but also help you a little as well. If you are interested in my professional work, please continue to follow me on Twitter/X:@wendyrwang.  

May your everyday be filled with joy and adventure.