# Discussions

Read blogs and engage with the community about the topics of Family, Mental. Reproductive Health, Relationships, etc. in the Philippines.

## Why

# Child-free

"Ayaw kong magka-anak", "parang nakakatakot magka-anak", "mahirap mag ka-pamilya". Do you also get these comments among the younger generation? These are only some of the phrases I mostly hear from people my age every time having kids is being talked about.

According to PSA, the Philippines' population has recorded a significant drop, that is from 37% of the population in 2000 down to 30.7% in 2021. Among Millennials and Gen Zs, it has been observed that there's an increasing trend of aversion to reproduction.

The world perceives child-free individuals in a negative light as it has been a traditional belief that one core element of human life revolves around reproduction. In the Philippines, being a predominantly Catholic nation, there exists a cultural norm suggesting that a fulfilling life entail having a family composed of a father, a mother, and children. However, this notion faces challenges as there is a growing trend toward opting for a childless lifestyle. Despite the country's entrenched traditional religious beliefs, we should understand this shift and reflect on why an increasing number of generations are choosing not to pursue traditional parenthood.

Voluntary childlessness is a conscious decision made by a couple, who are qualified and healthy, to not go through childbearing and parenthood altogether. In an age of rapid social change and technological advancement, this choice of lifestyle has garnered attention in every part of the world which is attributed to various factors throughout the years.

Economic uncertainty and finances are one of the top reasons of why the new generation of Filipinos aren't having kids. As a third world country, long dealing with effects of recessions, corruptions, inflation, and low wages already makes it hard to survive as an individual in the economic state of the Philippines. Additionally, the absence of legal frameworks and protective measures exacerbates these difficulties, with the lack of universal healthcare, accessible education and housing, legalized abortion, and governmental support for family planning further contributing to the strain on prospective parents.

According to Lieberman & Orlansky in 2018, Overpopulation and concerns on environmental sustainability have led people to consider having a smaller family size and some even chose to forgo parenthood altogether in order to control their own ecological footprint for the betterment of the planet's condition.

Aside from socio-economic reasons, it has been observed that there's an interrelation between higher level of education and high rates in childlessness, and between education and career path decisions. Pursuing a career is one major reason for voluntary aversion to procreation. As the world develops, there is a distinguished improvement of independence, access to education, opportunities, and freedom. Most are now opting to seek self-fulfillment, especially as women today have more life options than women did years ago. It is also argued that individuals now find an alternative not to bear children because of the availability of contraceptives.

Despite these numbers and factors, individuals who opt not to have children continue to encounter discrimination, societal pressures, and infringements on their rights. These realities underscore the importance of acknowledging and normalizing the decisions stemming from these issues. Addressing these matters promptly is crucial to prevent potential micro and macro-level consequences that may arise as a result.

Youth is the future of our world. We believe responsible procreation plays an important role in building and creating a new and better world. As claimed by one theory, if there are no or lesser children and younger people growing up in a society, no new ideas or inventions could occur.

## Conditions of Building a Family

# In the Philippines

In the year 2023, childlessness is now common in progressive and developed countries (Buchanan and Rotkirch, 2013). In the Philippines, this is slowly gaining ground like other developing nations. However, this topic is controversial at the same time as Most Filipinos still consider building a family in the Philippines difficult and as the country has strong cultural expectations for couples to have children as Family is still considered to be the foundation of social life for most Filipinos (Medina, 2001). The Philippines is also a predominantly catholic country that is why most Filipinos believe that a child is a gift from God and brings good luck to families (Concepcion & De Guzman, 1981). Because of these beliefs and culture, Filipinos have higher expectations for couples to bear children which puts much pressure especially for women in the Philippines (Tudy 2020).

As a third world country, numerous Filipino households encounter financial difficulties, such as inflation, unemployment, and low pay. Weak economy also affects the healthcare of the nation as there are challenges to access and enforcement of universal and affordable healthcare. These elements may have an impact on a couple's capacity to pay for housing, medical care, education, and other costs related to starting a family. In the legal framework, marriage, adoption, child welfare, abortions still lack implementations of the laws, and some are still in continuous discussions and debates.

## Repercussions of Being

# Childless by Choice

It's also important that we understand and take note the repercussions that an individual can face by being childless. Understanding these concepts can help an individual prepare, be responsible, and to help them embrace their choices and decisions.

Whether by choice or circumstance, being childless cannot escape certain issues and challenges on a personal and societal level. It's critical to understand that these difficulties can differ greatly based on personal circumstances and viewpoints. The following are some challenges or issues that childless individuals or couples may face:

###### 1. Social Stigma and Pressure:

Society can occasionally stigmatize or misunderstand childlessness. People and couples may experience social pressure or feelings of inadequacy as a result of questions or judgment regarding their choice or fertility status. Childlessness in society has several negative implications for couples, especially in a traditional view. Studies has showed before that there's almost general rejection of women, and was considered as "childish, unstable, egocentric, or unhealthy". While women who wanted several children were perceived as "patient, kind, delightful, likable, and husband-loving wife" (Rainwater and Weinstein 1960).

However, as time goes by and as the world progresses, different studies and observations show how different viewpoints emerge and develop in a more accepting and integrated culture. One of our goals in creating this website is to break this stigma by bringing this conversation into the table and help people understand why there's an inclination towards choices of being childless.

###### 2. Loss of Support System:

Later in life, childless people may find themselves without the customary network of support that adult children frequently offer. When it comes to providing care for elderly relatives, companion this may be an issue.

Childless couples and individuals may need to build a solid support system of friends, chosen family, and extended family to offer you company, help, and care. Long-term care planning options like establishing a support network or looking into senior community resources and investments.

###### 3. Planning and Securing Your Finances:

Those without children may have particular financial difficulties, such as managing healthcare expenses as they age or saving for retirement without the help of adult children.

Give retirement savings and financial planning top priority. Create a thorough financial plan with the help of a financial advisor that addresses investments, insurance, and retirement savings. To hedge against future medical costs, think about getting long-term care insurance.

###### 4. Planning for Estates and Inheritances:

Those without children may find it difficult to plan their estate and decide how to divide their possessions in the absence of direct heirs.

Drafting a legally binding will and estate plan, speaking with an estate planning lawyer will help childless individuals avoid this issue. To guarantee that your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes, think about naming beneficiaries, creating trusts, or contributing to charitable organizations.

###### 5. Making Decisions in Healthcare:

Those without children may find it difficult to decide on their healthcare as they get older, particularly if they do not have a named next of kin.

To avoid this, drafting advance directives, such as a healthcare power of attorney or living will, outlining your preferences for medical care and designating a reliable person to make decisions about your healthcare in the event of incapacitation

It's important to acknowledge that for many people and couples, choosing not to have children is a valid and legitimate decision. Even though these problems and difficulties might arise, they do not take away from the meaningful and contented lives that childless individuals and couples can have. Individuals and couples can find fulfillment in their own distinct paths and navigate the complexities of childlessness with the aid of support networks, counseling, and candid discussions about these issues. Furthermore, cultural perceptions and support networks are changing to become more accepting and inclusive of various family structures and choices.