Summary
Millennials are delaying having children not just for financial reasons, but also due to the mental stress involved in parenting. Research shows that stress and lack of time, rather than money, are major concerns for many potential parents. Social and familial support systems are less accessible, making parenting more challenging for this generation.
Key Facts
- Millennials are waiting longer to have children, often into their thirties or forties.
- The decision to delay is influenced by concerns about mental health, not just financial considerations.
- A report found that stress is the most common obstacle cited by mothers for raising a family.
- Lack of time is reported as a bigger barrier to parenting than lack of money.
- Social media adds stress by creating pressure to achieve parenting perfection.
- Many millennials lack the traditional support systems like nearby family to help with raising children.
- The idea of needing a community or "village" to support parenting is becoming less possible for many.
- Parenting now requires more time and resources, increasing the mental workload for potential parents.
