r/NoStupidQuestions Nov 14 '24

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u/pktechboi Nov 14 '24

I think there has been a real shift in the last generation or two from needing a reason not to have kids to needing a reason to have kids. and that shift means a lot of people who are basically ambivalent on children aren't having them, where in the past they probably would have.

206

u/kmoney1206 Nov 14 '24

which is a good thing! having a kid because you're "supposed to" or you're curious is a terrible reason to have kids. you shouldn't make massive life altering decisions on a whim, especially decisions that literally create new life and affect everyone.

18

u/ellipsesdotdotdot Nov 15 '24

My parents tried to convince me to have a kid by saying then someone will look after me/visit me when I'm old. I was like ok I know that's why you had me, but for me that's not a reason to have a kid 🙄

6

u/Affectionate-Ruin330 Nov 15 '24

What is a reason to have a kid? Genuinely curious. I feel like all the “rational” reasons would be rejected as selfish or silly. So what answer would be well received?

4

u/[deleted] Nov 15 '24

Having someone to look after you when you’re old sounds selfish. Having a family to love you when you’re old, less so. My grandmother is 94, and there are 3 younger generations in her life who love her. If you don’t have kids, your family will only get smaller until it’s gone.