Key points from article :
The trend of one-child families is rising in the UK as modern economic pressures and lifestyle choices influence family planning. Many parents, like Natalie Johnston, cite the high cost of childcare, demanding jobs, and a desire to provide quality time and resources to a single child as reasons for not having a second. England and Wales recorded a record-low fertility rate of 1.41 children per woman, while families with only one dependent child now make up 44% of households with children. Experts describe a "fertility gap," where people want more children than they end up having, often due to delayed family formation, career priorities, and biological constraints.
Research indicates that being an only child does not result in negative personality traits often associated with the “spoiled only child” stereotype. In fact, only children often perform better academically, benefiting from concentrated parental resources, higher parental education levels, and theories such as resource dilution and confluence. Studies also suggest that social and emotional development of only children is comparable to those with siblings. Historical myths like China’s “little emperor” generation have been largely debunked.
The decline in birth rates also has broader societal implications, including falling school enrolments, reduced per-pupil funding, and pressures on public services and pensions in an ageing population. Governments worldwide are exploring policies to encourage childbirth, such as tax incentives, baby bonuses, and childcare support. Ultimately, the decision to have only one child remains deeply personal, with many parents prioritizing quality of life, emotional availability, and family well-being over family size.
