Includes bibliographical references (pages 237-279).

"From Dr. Amy Blackstone, childfree woman, co-creator of the blog 'we're {not} having a baby!', and nationally recognized expert on the childfree choice, comes a definitive investigation into the history and current growing movement of adults choosing to forgo parenthood. Dr. Blackstone is no stranger to a wide range of negative responses when she informs people she doesn't have--nor does she want--kids: confused looks, patronizing quips, thinly veiled pity, even outright scorn and condemnation. But she is not alone in opting out when it comes to children. More people than ever are choosing to live childfree, and openly discussing their decision to do so. In spite of this, the childfree lifestyle is frequently seen as taboo, and its effects personally and culturally are still often misunderstood. Blackstone, a professor of sociology, has been studying the childfree choice since 2008, a decision she and her husband had already confidently and happily made. Using her own and others' research, as well as her personal experience, she delves into the childfree movement from its conception to today. Exploring gender and perceived gender roles, race, sexual orientation, politics, environmentalism, and feminism, she strips away the misconceptions surrounding non-parents and reveals the still radical notion that support of the childfree can lead to better lives and societies for all: parents, non-parents, and children alike."--Dust jacket.