Orientations towards voluntary childlessness

J Biosoc Sci. 1983 Apr;15(2):153-64. doi: 10.1017/s0021932000014449.

Abstract

PIP: This paper reports on a study of decision making among voluntarily childless couples that was conducted in Britain. The discussion is based on evidence from an intensive interview survey with 38 childless husbands and wives. 4 main orientations towards childlessness have been delineated: hedonistic, idealistic, emotional and practical. These are based on the decision making processes childless couples go through. Each orientation is described, showing that childless individuals can differ markedly in their attitude towards not having children and in their values and ideas about life in general. It is maintained that these differences are important in understanding the complexities of voluntary childlessness and can have practical value in studying aspects of the phenomenon, such as forecasting changes in the pattern of childlessness. The author predicts that voluntary childlessness may increase: 1) as a conjunction of recent trends towards egalitarianism in marriage and emphasis on individual freedom as opposed to concentration on familial values; 2) as a reflection of the economic recession to maintain living standards; 3) as a growing reflection of disillusionment with social, political and environmental problems at the national and global level; 4) and as an outgrowth of increased public support and discussion on voluntary childlessness. The trend may reverse if those who feel they are too old are reassured, if daycare becomes more prevalent for working mothers, and if employment opportunities shrink for women, making motherhood an increasingly attractive option.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude
  • Decision Making*
  • Emotions
  • England
  • Family Characteristics*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Life Style
  • Male
  • Middle Aged