I don’t want to have children… Continuity and change in partner relationships of young professional women

Abstract

In the context of the cultural, economic and social transformations experienced by Chilean families and various changes related to modernity, this article analyzes the main motivations expressed by a group of young professional women regarding the decision not to have children. Based on the analysis of family and life experiences, the decision is presented by them as being closely connected to the development of more equal partner relationships in which practices and representations that challenge gender mandates are intermingled. This includes aspects related to work, one’s partner, children, income use and the distribution of household tasks, among others. Despite the interest in building more equal relationships, the decision not to have children does not ensures the end of inequalities, especially in relation to the distribution of household chores. However, the studied group presents a constant interest in building a more equitable relationship and a move towards interaction that differs from the ones they experienced in their respective families.