It's an odd paradox. As their standard of living increases, the people seem to be becoming more unhappy.

Several studies have commented on this.

https://www.brookings.edu/research/happiness-and-health-in-china-the-paradox-of-progress/

The "World Happiness Index" placed Denmark at #1 happiness, and China at #83, below #6 Canada and #13 United States. Burundi was at the bottom, but seemingly placid #94 Portugal (with the emotion of "saudade") was below China.

The contrast between historically vibrant family relations and the loneliness of the one-child policy may account for some of China's unhappiness.

Based on talks with Chinese expats, I suspect the Chinese view their government with the same mixture of grudging approval and naked contempt everyone else does.

However, no one in China should be subjected the terrible treatment they receive just for disagreeing with the government and speaking their mind. No one should anywhere, really.