top of page

Couples Are Deciding To Be "Child-Free", To Have No Children, In Other Words - IELTS Band 9 Essay


Couples Are Deciding To Be "Child-Free", To Have No Children, In Other Words - IELTS Band 9 Essay

Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner


Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score



Sample Essay 1

The growing trend of couples choosing to remain child-free has sparked a debate over the motivations behind such decisions. This essay will examine arguments that label this choice as selfish, focusing on personal freedom and comfort, against those that commend it for ethical reasons, such as environmental sustainability and economic practicality. I will argue that the decision is largely a personal choice, reflecting broader societal shifts and considerations.


On one hand, critics argue that choosing to be child-free is inherently selfish. They suggest that such couples prioritize personal comfort and freedom over the traditional familial responsibilities. For instance, the luxury of spontaneous travel and career-centric lifestyles are often cited as benefits enjoyed by those without children. This viewpoint suggests that by foregoing parenthood, individuals avoid the sacrifices and challenges that raising children entails, thus focusing primarily on their own desires and conveniences. Critics further contend that this choice might contribute to a gradual decline in societal cohesion, emphasizing individualism over community and familial bonds.


Conversely, many believe that the decision to not have children is rooted in commendable, selfless motives. Environmental concerns are a significant factor; with the world grappling with overpopulation, resource depletion, and climate change, child-free couples often argue that their choice contributes to a larger effort to mitigate environmental impacts. Furthermore, the desire to maintain personal and financial independence is seen not just as a pursuit of freedom, but also as a practical response to the increasing economic pressures and uncertainties of modern life. This perspective highlights a strategic and conscientious approach, positioning child-free individuals as responsible global citizens rather than self-centred individuals. By choosing not to procreate, they also avoid passing on the burdens of economic and environmental instability to future generations, enhancing their argument with a forward-thinking consideration.


In conclusion, the choice to be child-free is often misjudged as merely self-serving, though it frequently stems from thoughtful concerns like environmental and economic challenges. Whether prioritizing personal liberty or acting from global conscientiousness, this decision reflects a nuanced interplay of personal and societal factors, underscoring its legitimacy and complexity.


Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score



Sample Essay 2

As society evolves, an increasing number of couples are consciously deciding against having children. This essay delves into the notion that such choices stem from selfish motives, such as prioritizing personal convenience, as well as the opposing view that these decisions are driven by ethical concerns like overpopulation. I will argue that both perspectives have validity, but they ultimately converge on a deliberate, personal choice shaped by current societal realities.


Some argue that the decision to remain child-free reflects a self-centred avoidance of parental duties, highlighting a preference for a hassle-free lifestyle that eschews the demands and sacrifices inherent in child-rearing. They posit that by not having children, individuals can focus on personal growth, career advancement, and unrestricted leisure, thereby prioritizing self-fulfilment over the perpetuation of societal norms. This viewpoint implies that such choices might be driven by a desire to maximize personal joy and achievement at the expense of familial and societal contributions. Additionally, detractors might claim that this prioritization of self-interest over communal welfare weakens the traditional fabric of society, potentially leading to a less cohesive community structure.


On the other side of the debate, the decision to not have children is often seen as a commendable act influenced by global concerns. Advocates of this view point to the ethical consideration of the planet's carrying capacity, advocating that abstaining from parenthood is a proactive measure against the strains of overpopulation, which include environmental degradation and the depletion of resources. Moreover, this choice is seen as a thoughtful response to the uncertainties of modern economics, where the financial burden of parenting can be daunting. By choosing childlessness, individuals are often framing their decision as an act of responsibility towards the world and future generations rather than an act of denial or escape. Proponents suggest that such a decision is not merely a personal preference but a moral stance, highlighting a commitment to sustainable living and the well-being of the planet.


In conclusion, while the decision to be child-free can be seen through lenses of self-interest or ethical responsibility, it remains a profound personal choice influenced by both personal desires and global realities. This decision encapsulates modern societal dynamics, where individual preferences align with broader existential and ecological concerns.

Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner


Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score

bottom of page