There are many factors that couples or individuals should take into consideration before deciding on parenthood. Many considerations are personal, but there are also the ones that the majority of couples or individuals share in common. Considerations that should be taken into account when deciding on parenthood includes the willingness to change the life-style, to adapt to the needs on the newborn child, socio-economical position to take care about the welfare of the child, willingness to shift from independence to full time father or mother, and to subordinate all your needs to the needs to your child.
Parenthood introduces a significant change in the life of every parent. Starting from the pregnancy, which can be a demanding state for the future-to-be mother and the father as well, parenting demands a different life-style from the one has been led in the past. "Anxiety about caring for the baby properly and providing for the growing child economically" (Benokraitis, 2011 p. 293) is a primary concern of every parent. Before entering into parenthood, couples should ask themselves if their life-style is suitable for raising a child. Unhealthy life-style that includes drug use, alcohol, smoking or obesity influences the unborn baby. Many complications that are based on an unhealthy life-style can influence the baby and lead to death. As cited by Benokraitis (2011), "Chronic drinking during pregnancy may lead to fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)" (p. 294). Medical issues can also be applied to smoking and drug use where children are at high risk of developing lifetime issues with their lungs, brain, and other organs. Based on these reasons, each couple or individual should be prepared to enter into parenthood free from unhealthy habits and allow its future offspring a good environment.
The ability to ensure a good life, free from lack of money for education is a desire of ever parent. That is why, couples or individuals, should take in account if they decide to raise and educate a child. However, many couples decide on having children later in life because, in this way, they will be in a better material situation and will not worry about the future of their family from the economical point of view. The notion that there is a dependable member of your family can be a difficult for someone. Each individual should reflect on its willingness to submit to the needs of a baby or a small child by trading its independence. This may be difficult period in life for many new parents, especially women. Women who have had their first child may develop a state of postnatal depression. This state can reflect on them and their ability to take care of a child. If postnatal depression occurs, mothers should seek for professional help and support from their families. However, couples or individuals who decide on entering in parenthood should take these considerations into accounts as possible scenarios. The size of the future family and the number of children are also some of the important factors in every family. In today's modern world, people usually decide on one or two children. However, the time space between having children is important because statistics show that it is better to have two children within the space limit of 24 months than 5 or more years. In this way, children will develop a lifetime bonds with their siblings and it is easier for parents as well.
References:
Benokraitis V. Nijole. (2011). Marriages and Families. Pearson
