Childfree and Islamic Values: Exploring Motivations, Impacts, and Social Implications

Abstract

This study explores the childfree phenomenon from an Islamic perspective, focusing on the reasons, impacts, and socio-cultural implications of the decision not to have children. Childfree, which is increasingly popular in Indonesia, is influenced by economic, mental, cultural, and environmental factors. Although Islam does not explicitly prohibit childlessness, Islamic teachings encourage having children as part of the purpose of marriage and human nature. This study uses a qualitative method with document analysis from accredited journals published in the last five years. The results of the study indicate that childlessness is contrary to Islamic principles that emphasize the importance of offspring as a gift and mandate from Allah. However, in certain conditions, such as health problems, childlessness can be considered a permissible choice. This study also identifies the impact of childlessness on family structure, social norms, and demographics. Policy recommendations include increasing public awareness of the diversity of life choices and psychological support for individuals who choose to be childfree. This study is expected to be a basis for further studies on the childfree phenomenon in social and religious contexts.