Why Are More Adults Choosing to Remain Child-Free?

"I recently spent time in a group of millennial and Gen X colleagues, and the conversation inevitably shifted to children and families. I was shocked to find that more than half of us had chosen to remain child-free. Growing up, whenever I said I didn't want children, I'd get sideways glances or hear the familiar line: "You'll change your mind when you get older." (Spoiler: I haven't.)"

"In recent years, I find that I am not alone. In fact, a growing number of adults are choosing to remain child-free-a decision that was once stigmatized but is now gaining wider acceptance and understanding. Many of us are motivated by a desire for freedom, concerns about mental health, financial and political considerations, or simply a lack of desire for children 1-5."

A growing share of adults are choosing to remain child-free, reflecting shifting priorities away from traditional milestones like marriage and parenthood. Motivations include a desire for personal freedom, career and travel opportunities, concerns about mental health, financial pressures, and political considerations, as well as simply not wanting children. The stigma around being child-free has lessened, enabling more people to make this choice openly. Survey data indicate many child-free adults say they "just didn't want" children, signaling a rise in individualism and in redefining success and fulfillment outside traditional family roles.

Read at Psychology Today