Misconceptions about couples who do not have children

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Misconceptions about couples who do not have children

Nowadays, which at times is imprisoned under the weight of various conflicting doctrines, opinions, poles, debates and beliefs, there is also a dilemma about couples who do not have children. We have collected the most common misconceptions that often accompany those who, for one reason or another, live only in twos.

Every now and then on social networks, we witness the personal confessions of women who cannot or do not want to have children. These are two fairly simple scenarios, but they still provoke a lot of verbal clashes over rights, desires, personal decisions, and more. But why is a couple who (still have no children in a given period) always witnessing astonished looks and judgmental questions? Having a baby is not going to the store for a plush toy, but it is a much more responsible decision that has large dimensions and is solely the domain of the couple. “When will you have it? Isn’t it time? The years go by.” Such questions and constant squabbling only indicate disrespect and exceeding the couple’s boundaries. On the other hand, in addition to those who do not want a child, there are also many who, for various reasons, cannot have one. For the latter, pressures from loved ones are not only disruptive, but can also be very painful. So let’s be tolerant of each other, respect different lifestyles and ways of thinking. We don’t have to infer, think and guess why someone doesn’t have children – it’s every couple’s right and decision.

Misconceptions about childless couples

For some couples, family comes first and having a child is something they have always dreamed of. Others consciously give up on children and live a different lifestyle than the former. The third one wants a child, but they can’t have one, but they are trying hard to get pregnant. Each of these couples lives by their own desires, principles and values. None of the above is less valuable and all decisions must be respected.

► ‘Couples without children live unfulfilled lives.’

Such a claim is quite subjective, as each individual makes life meaningful in their own way. For some, having a child is the pinnacle of existence and the highest self-realization that comes with family life, which we know is anything but boring. But it is wrong to believe that life without children is boring and unfulfilled. One British study even showed that life satisfaction is higher in couples without children. Who is happier and who is not is difficult to judge, as it is a subjective experience. We are certainly happy when we live what we believe in and what fulfills us – with or without children.

► Couples without children will face loneliness and greater financial difficulties in old age

Some believe that having children greatly facilitates the period of old age. But who can guarantee that children will take care of us when we are in our golden years? Nowadays, when the world has become a global village, many are emigrating and looking for opportunities in other countries or even continents, so caring for parents can be completely geographically limited. In addition, the results show that women without children are financially better off than those with children, and the reason is also hidden in lower living costs. Everyone, regardless of parenting status, should find ways to stay socially connected in adulthood.

► Couples without children are selfish

Parenting is a really difficult role that requires a lot of sacrifice in addition to happy moments. In such a role, at least in the beginning, one must put oneself in last place and take care of the children, the family. Parents who, in their role, have given up themselves, their desires and longings, and become bitter and unfulfilled in their needs, may perceive childless couples as selfish individuals who care about no one. Is that really so? Surely we all know kind, compassionate and responsible people who are childless, as well as selfish and egocentric parents. Such judgments are therefore completely redundant in this case.

What makes people so interesting is that we are so different – in our lifestyles, views, needs and goals. Whether someone wants to start a big family or just live together – both need to be respected. Let’s avoid forcing our opinion on others, as everyone follows what they believe in. Why would it be wrong for someone to choose a path that is different from the path of others?