Revisiting Child-Free Discourse

Megan Daum expresses a critical view of the term 'child-free,' asserting that it carries negative connotations similar to jargon found in other contexts. She prefers the phrase 'childless by choice,' highlighting the stigma individuals face when opting out of parenthood. Daum emphasizes that many people do not choose this path for superficial reasons, countering narratives about indulgent lifestyles. Her anthology, 'Selfish, Shallow and Self-Absorbed,' was created to explore the diverse and nuanced reflections of people who do not want children, showcasing the larger societal misconception surrounding this choice.