Childfree from the Perspective of Society, Psychology, and Religion in Indonesia

b. Negative Impacts

• Loneliness and isolation: Childfree can cause feelings of loneliness due to not having children to share experiences and emotions. This can worsen the quality of life and increase the risk of depression.
• Social stigma and family pressure: Society still has traditional views about the role of parents. Childfree can cause pressure from family and society, which worsens mental health.
• Loss of parental role: Childfree can cause loss of identity and social role as a parent, which affects self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Impact on relationship quality: Childfree can affect the dynamics of a couple's relationship, both positively and negatively. Couples can focus more on their careers and relationships but can also experience conflict due to differences in expectations.
• Potential of increased stress: Childfree can cause stress and anxiety due to social pressure, loss of role, and loneliness.

c. Psychological Theories

• Erik Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development: The "Generativity vs. Stagnation" stage (ages 40-65) emphasises the importance of contributing to society. Childfree can influence this stage by shifting focus to other activities.
• Maslow's Theory of Needs: Childfree is related to the need for self-actualisation, which is achieving maximum potential and finding meaning in life.
• Humanistic Psychology Theory: Childfree as the primary choice, allows individuals to develop themselves and find happiness according to personal values.

d. Effects on Mental Health

• Depression: Childfree can increase the risk of depression due to loneliness, social pressure, and role loss.
• Anxiety: Stress and anxiety about the future, social pressure, and role loss can cause anxiety.
• Sleep Disturbances: Stress, anxiety, and depression can cause sleep disturbances.
• Decreased Self-Esteem: Role loss, social pressure, and loneliness can worsen self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Quality of Life: Childfree can affect overall quality of life, positively or negatively, depending on the individual and the environment.

3. Religion Perspective

Being child-free, "choosing not to have children", is viewed differently across various religions and traditions. Below is a general perspective from several significant religions regarding this topic:

a. Islam

• In Islam, having children is considered a blessing and one of the primary purposes of marriage. The Qur'an mentions that children are a form of sustenance from Allah, as stated in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46): "Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life..." 
• However, Islam also teaches that decisions regarding family, including having children, depend on a person's capability and readiness---physically, mentally, and financially. Suppose there are valid reasons, such as health issues or other factors. In that case, a couple may decide not to have children as long as the intention does not contradict Islamic values, such as rejecting Allah's decree or purely out of selfishness. Scholars recommend discussing the matter with one's spouse and consulting religious advisors.

b. Christianity

• In Christian tradition, having children is often viewed as part of the calling of marriage and a way to pass on faith. In Genesis (1:28), it is stated: "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it..."
• However, modern churches increasingly recognise that couples have the freedom to decide how to live out their marital life, including the choice not to have children, especially if there are medical or specific personal considerations.

c. Hinduism

• In Hinduism, having children is considered part of one's dharma (duty) in the grihastha (householder) stage of life. Children are seen as a way to continue the family lineage and fulfil spiritual obligations to ancestors (pitru runa).
• That said, Hinduism also acknowledges individual choice, especially in the context of the family's overall well-being. Some Hindu traditions may take a more flexible approach to this decision.

d. Buddhism

Buddhism does not mandate having children and focuses more on inner development and wisdom. Since there is no specific obligation related to having children, Buddhism generally leaves this decision to individuals or couples as long as harmful intentions, such as greed or aversion, do not drive the choice.

So, many religions emphasise the value of family and the importance of having children. However, in the modern context, many also allow space for individuals or couples to make decisions based on their abilities and circumstances. In any religion, consulting with religious leaders or advisors can provide clearer guidance in alignment with one's beliefs.