Social Construction of Students Regarding the Childfree Phenomenon and the Concept of the Ideal Family in Indonesia

The phenomenon of childfree living is becoming increasingly prevalent among young people who are still in a phase of self-exploration and have not yet fully decided on their stance regarding the meaning of having children and preparing to build a family. This research aims to analyze this phenomenon from the perspective of university students who are future family creators. The study seeks to explore their views on the childfree phenomenon and their responses to the concept of the ideal family they envision for the future. The research employs a qualitative phenomenological approach. The findings indicate that students share similar interpretations regarding the childfree phenomenon and the concept of the ideal family in Indonesia. The childfree phenomenon introduces a new perspective that family is not solely about offspring but emphasizes quality. However, there are differences in how they respond to the existence of the childfree trend, which affects their concept of the ideal family. Some view childfree as a positive phenomenon that reflects a selective and relative choice about having children. Conversely, others see it as a negative viewpoint, as they consider it a rejection of the benefits of having children, which they believe can still be pursued.