The role of intergenerational transmission on the decision-making process of voluntary childlessness

The current study aims to investigate how intergenerational transmission has a role in the decision-making process of voluntary childlessness. The lived experiences of married Turkish couples were assessed through qualitative research. Genogram was used as an assessment tool to examine the role of intergenerational transmission. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with thirteen married couples, three of whom are living abroad. Data collection, analyses, and theory building were conducted based on grounded theory to assess processes. According to analyses done using MAXODA, three major categories has emerged which are (a) Family factors as a source of repetitive scenarios, (b) Intergenerational discontinuity: Breaking the social norm of child-centered living as changed scenarios and (c) Having a child in the modern world is a decision that needs serious consideration. To conclude, intergenerational transmission and discontinuity affect the decision-making process of being voluntary childless through the ways of physical/psychological and genetic factors, values, parenting strategies, early childhood experiences, and societal norms.