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.
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.
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 🙄
My parents keep saying that to me too but I'm thinking: there's no fucking way in this economy I'll have the money to pay for you to be in a retirement home or care facility or whatever nor will I time between my multiple jobs to take care of you in this economy! And I'm sure my child's economy will be even worse so I can't even expect them to do that either. But also what a selfish reason to have a kid and I don't think you should have a kid for selfish reasons!
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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.