A growing number of young adults are choosing to remain childless.
A recent survey conducted by research agency OnePoll sheds light on the prevailing sentiments among 1,000 adults aged 18 to 34 who have yet to embark on the journey of parenthood. Only half of the respondents plan to start a family, while one in four have firmly decided against having children altogether.
For most young adults, the decision stems from prioritizing themselves and their personal growth, with 49 percent citing a desire to focus more on self-development as their primary motive. Plus, 47 percent shared that financial concerns are a major hinderance, while 38 percent were anxious about bringing a child into a world rife with uncertainty and challenges.
Additionally, environmental concerns are a factor for 35 percent. Career aspirations and existing health issues were also influential factors, contributing to the decisions of 28 and 22 percent of respondents, respectively.
However, despite their personal decision, 71 percent of young adults shared they feel pressured by society to have children. Notably, 40 percent of these individuals experience this pressure directly from their own family members, with mothers emerging as the most likely source of such influence, followed by grandmothers and fathers.
“For generations, having children has just been the done thing, but it seems younger people are now deciding against this more and more,” said a OnePoll representative.
However, decisions and feelings may continue to change over time, the spokesperson shared. The survey found that on average respondents considered 28 years old to be the ideal age to begin parenting, meaning that some younger respondents may change their answers after a few years.
“There are myriad reasons why someone may decide to have children,” the spokesperson said. “But on the other hand, there are just as many – equally valid – reasons to not want to pass down your DNA. Young adults should feel empowered to make their own decisions, and also it’s important to be flexible and realize that things in life can change. Someone may decide at 25 they never want to have children, then change their mind at 35 – which is perfectly fine.”
