Abstract: “The US does not currently hold an official policy of containment towards China. In fact, Several US Presidents and high ranking officials have stated that the US welcomes a rising China. Yet, many scholars and analysts contend that there is a rising threat perception among China that the US is trying to contain China. This article randomly sampled and systematically analyzes the current Chinese literature from elites and scholars to determine what factors lead to this perceived strategy. Contrary to current theories, a perceived US containment policy by China is mostly defensive as it is geared towards a domestic audience and focuses on China's national core interests. In response, Chinese scholars call on China to continue its peaceful development.”

Keywords: Containment, Perception, Engagement, China, United States