Gender Differences in Childfree Discourse: A Discourse Analysis of Reddit Communities

• In Event: 30458 - Reproductive Beliefs and Fertility Intentions

Abstract

The decision to remain childfree is a growing social phenomenon in the U.S. and worldwide (Aragão et al., 2024; Blackstone and Stewart 2012; Gemmill 2019; Rybińska 2021), yet research on the motivations behind this choice remains disproportionately focused on women (U.S. Census Bureau 2019; Hintz and Tucker 2023). Prior research has suggested that gender influences these decisions -- women might experience more societal pressure regarding reproductive choices, whereas men may have different incentives or barriers. However, existing research highlights women’s childfree motivations (e.g., autonomy, avoidance of patriarchal expectations) but neglects men’s perspectives. The current paper compares how men and women articulate their reasons for being childfree on Reddit, a platform where candid, community-driven discussions thrive. To date, I have collected data from over 72k users and 1.8 million posts and replies during the time period from 2009 to 2025. By applying Fairclough’s three-dimensional critical discourse analysis (CDA) -- which examines discourse at the levels of text, discursive practice, and social practice -- this study analyzes how gendered societal norms around parenthood shape narratives about being childfree, including whether and how they reproduce or challenge the existing power structure.

Author

• Fanmei Xia, Yale University