Rising Trend of Child-Free Choices Among Young Japanese Adults

Tokyo, March 15: A recent survey has heightened concerns for the Japanese government amid declining birth rates. The report reveals that a significant number of young adults are opting to avoid parenthood.

According to a survey conducted by Rohto Pharmaceutical in December 2025, 62.6% of unmarried individuals aged 18 to 29 expressed that they do not wish to have children. This figure marks an increase from 56.6% in 2024, indicating a growing trend towards a “child-free lifestyle” among the youth.

The survey, which included 400 participants, highlighted several reasons behind this choice. Economic pressures, career impacts, and worries about the responsibilities of raising children were the most prominent factors. Many respondents also noted that witnessing experiences related to pregnancy and child-rearing on social media heightened their concerns.

When analyzed by gender, a higher reluctance towards having children was observed among women. The survey indicated that 64.7% of women do not want the responsibilities of parenthood, compared to 60.7% of men. This marks the first time since the survey began in 2020 that the percentage of women surpasses that of men.

This trend has been steadily increasing over the past few years. In 2020, only 44% of young people expressed a desire to remain child-free. By 2023, this figure had risen to 55.2%, surpassing the 50% mark for the first time.

According to Japan Today, a company spokesperson stated that the results suggest society and workplaces should provide better support and information to young people before they consider having children, helping them feel more confident in balancing family and career.

In response to the declining birth rate, the Japanese government has launched several initiatives. These include increasing childcare allowances, providing additional benefits during maternity and paternity leave, and offering financial assistance to families.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains alarming. Data from the Health Ministry indicates that only 705,809 children were born in Japan in 2025, marking a record low for the tenth consecutive year.

Prime Minister Sanae Takichi referred to this crisis as a “silent emergency” in February, warning that continued declines in birth rates could severely impact the nation’s economic and social strength.

Experts believe that if Japan does not address the economic insecurity, work-life balance, and social challenges faced by the youth, the population decline could accelerate in the coming years.