Why The 'Double Income, No Kids' Movement Is Gaining Popularity

Who says you need to have kids to have a fulfilling life? Definitely not 'DINKs.'

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | February 29, 2024

Bringing a child into the world is a big decision and it's one that shouldn't be taken lightly. For many couples, the choice to become parents is a deeply personal one, influenced by many factors ranging from societal expectations to personal desires and circumstances.

While some individuals feel a strong urge to become parents, others may question whether parenthood is right for them. This divergence in perspectives has given rise to various family structures and lifestyles, including the increasingly prevalent phenomenon of "DINK" families.

DINK, an acronym for "dual income, no kids," refers to couples who have made a deliberate choice not to have children. Unsurprisingly, DINK families are often a subject of controversy. While some view their decision as selfish, others respect their choice to prioritize different aspects of life.

Psychological research has unveiled the motivations of DINK families, uncovering the unexpected benefits they may enjoy.

Why Are Couples Choosing To Be DINKs?

With two incomes and no dependents, DINKs often find themselves with more disposable income and free time compared to traditional families.

A survey conducted with 1,241 Japanese couples revealed that one in five families opt for the DINK lifestyle. Among these couples, 46% share living costs, over half take up to two annual trips with their spouses and a large majority, 93%, can easily spend weekends and holidays with friends without worrying about childcare commitments.

At its core, the DINK trend represents a departure from traditionalist values that prescribe to the conventional notions of a male breadwinner and a female caregiver, which are increasingly losing relevance among younger generations. DINK families are often scrutinized by traditionalists for being overly hedonistic and living a "shallow" life, based on the idea that no adult can be truly fulfilled if they do not know the "joy and pride of bringing up sons and daughters."

In reality, DINKs seem to forgo parenthood to prioritize self-expression, personal growth and meaningful relationships over materialistic pursuits. For many, the choice to remain childless is a deliberate and thoughtful one.

Recent surveys in the U.S. reveal that 33% of DINKs cite financial freedom as their primary motivation for being child-free, while others prioritize flexibility (28%), face practical barriers such as financial constraints (26%) or medical reasons (22%). Only a minority, 21%, explicitly express a lack of desire for parenthood.

Beyond financial considerations, DINK couples also cite concerns about the world they would bring a child into, including political instability, environmental challenges and social issues like crime. Moreover, many view their decision as an opportunity to invest in their careers and personal development, unfettered by the demands of parenting.

While parenthood may be the traditional path to fulfillment for some, the allure of a DINK lifestyle is that it can offer comparable levels of satisfaction and happiness without the added pressures of parenthood.

The Benefits Of A DINK Lifestyle

According to research, the two overarching motivations for DINKs are hedonism and healthy selfishness. While some may assume these motivations to be self-indulgent, researchers suggest that they can allow couples greater opportunity for self-realization.

Without dependents, DINKs find fulfillment in personal pursuits that traditional parents may not be able to enjoy, including:

Financial freedom. With no children to support, DINKs have greater financial flexibility. They can indulge in luxuries, save for retirement or invest in personally rewarding experiences without the financial constraints of childcare.
Free time. Parenthood often demands significant time and energy, from attending to the needs of children to managing household responsibilities. In contrast, DINKs have the luxury of ample time to pursue hobbies, travel or simply relax and recharge. They can usually spend their free time as they please, fostering a sense of spontaneity and adventure in their lives.
Career development. DINKs have the opportunity to focus on their careers without the considerations of parenthood. They can pursue ambitious career goals, take on challenging projects or explore new professional opportunities with the freedom to devote time and energy to their work. This autonomy allows DINKs to prioritize professional growth and advancement, leading to greater fulfillment and satisfaction in their careers.
Personal growth. Without the responsibilities of parenthood, DINKs have the freedom to prioritize their own personal growth and development. They can invest time and energy in self-improvement activities such as further education, skill-building or pursuing personal passions and interests. This fosters a sense of fulfillment and self-actualization, allowing DINKs to lead meaningful lives on their own terms.

The steady rise of DINK families reflects a shift in societal norms and values, challenging traditional expectations of marriage and parenthood. While some may view the DINK lifestyle as unconventional or selfish, it offers unique benefits and opportunities that are often not attainable through parenthood. By prioritizing financial independence, relishing in personal freedom and nurturing career aspirations, DINKs craft lives rich in fulfillment and purpose, unbound by the expectations of conventional family roles.

Climate change is an important motivation behind the DINK lifestyle. Take this test to find out how much this issue concerns you: Climate Change Worry Scale

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here.