Parenthood goals in youth linked to later life happiness
For many, parenthood is considered a key component of a fulfilling life. However, with an increasing number of adults remaining childfree, concerns have emerged regarding their long-term well-being. Laura Buchinger and colleagues investigated how life goals in early adulthood predict midlife well-being among those who become parents and those who do not. This research was published in Psychology & Aging. Life goals play a crucial role in shaping individuals’ emotions, thoughts, and behaviors across the lifespan. According to lifespan development theories, people adjust their aspirations based on societal expectations and personal circumstances. Prior research suggests that failing to achieve significant life goals, such as parenthood, can negatively affect well-being. This study sought to determine whether prioritizing the goal of having children in one’s 20s is associated with different well-being trajectories in midlife, particularly for those who never become parents. Buchinger and colleagues utilized data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), a large, nationally representative dataset that tracks individuals over time. The study followed 562 participants from their early adulthood (ages 18 to 30) into midlife …