Do Child-Free Weddings Send the Wrong Message to Children?
Briefly

The article discusses the growing trend of child-free weddings and its implications, particularly for the children who are excluded. Children are inherently sensitive to social belonging, and the rejection they face when not invited to such events can cause emotional pain. It argues that while couples may have practical reasons for opting out, the long-term effects on children's emotional wellbeing and perceptions of family connection should not be overlooked. The article also notes that inclusive weddings are linked to lower divorce rates, highlighting the importance of belonging in familial structures.
Excluding children from weddings can lead to feelings of rejection in them, activating the same areas in the brain as physical pain, reflecting the importance of inclusion.
Weddings represent our family values, and including children in celebrations not only affirms their place in the family but also models belonging and connection.
Read at Psychology Today
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