WOMEN AND THE CHOICE NOT TO MOTHER: BETWEEN DESIRE AND FREEDOM
Keywords:
Motherhood, Women, Children, DecisionAbstract
Women who choose not to have children challenge conventional norms that associate femininity with motherhood, asserting new definitions of what it means to be a woman. This choice, often surrounded by stigma and social pressure, is influenced by personal experiences, professional and emotional aspects, as well as the desire for individual freedom. This study analyzes the individual, cultural, and social elements that influence women to decide not to have children, along with the broader societal effects of that decision. It explores personal motivations, psychological consequences, perceptions of empowerment, and the obstacles imposed by traditional norms of femininity and motherhood. A total of 14 academic papers and 4 books were selected for the development of this research. The findings suggest that the choice to remain child-free is closely linked to the pursuit of independence, personal fulfillment, and freedom—often in opposition to societal pressures and stigmatization. As a result, it becomes evident that by demystifying motherhood as an inevitable destiny, these women promote an important reflection on reproductive rights, the diversity of choices, and the construction of a more inclusive society—one in which each woman can live her life fully, regardless of whether or not she has children. Furthermore, this decision encourages a deeper reflection on conventional gender roles, revealing tensions between female identity and cultural expectations. Social and family support plays a significant role in the acceptance of this choice. Ultimately, the experience of not being a mother is a unique, lifelong journey that challenges historical norms and contributes to the expansion of the concept of femininity.
