A college in Xiangtan, Hunan province, has defended new rules that bar students who "behave badly" in a relationship from receiving honors.

Many critics say Xiangtan University's Business School, which issued the controversial document on Oct 13, is attempting to meddle in people's lives.

Ou Dingyu, who is charge of student affairs, assured that the rule is not aimed at stopping students from having boyfriends or girlfriends, but hoped it can reduce things like couples' disputes and unwanted pregnancies. "The terms and words may not be accurate. We hope students don't misunderstand our intentions," Ou said.