Shifting Demographics: The Rising Trend of Male Childlessness

When US vice-presidential candidate JD Vance commented on “childless cat ladies,” he suggested a stereotype of educated, urban, career-focused women. However, the demographic profile of childless individuals is evolving. Recent research indicates that men are increasingly affected by involuntary childlessness, particularly those with lower incomes. A 2021 study conducted in Norway revealed a male childlessness rate of 72% for the lowest income quintile, compared to only 11% for top earners. This disparity had expanded by nearly 20 percentage points over the preceding 30 years. Robin Hadley represents individuals who desired parenthood but encountered obstacles. He did not pursue higher education, subsequently becoming a technical photographer in a university lab based in Manchester, and by his 30s, he was eager to become a father. He was unmarried then, having previously married and divorced in his 20s. He experienced financial difficulty with his mortgage, which left him with minimal discretionary funds. As he was unable to afford frequent social outings, finding a partner proved challenging. He experienced feelings of deprivation as his friends and colleagues began having children. He articulated, “Birthday cards for kids or collections for new babies, all that reminds you of what you’re not – and what you’re expected to be. There is pain associated with it.” His personal journey prompted him to author a book examining the reasons why, today, an increasing