Invitation to the Survey: Experiences of Life Without Children

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has already responded to my survey on meaningful life without children. I have received many responses and touching stories.

I am currently working on a book about meaning in life and finding one’s authentic self without having children of one’s own. As part of this work, I have created a survey and am looking for individuals who would be willing to share their experiences related to this important topic.

Most of the responses until now have come from women, even though the topic is equally relevant to many men.

That is why I am now inviting men who do not have children of their own to participate and bring a male perspective to this topic. It is really valuable to hear more of your experiences as well. You can respond in your own way, and even short stories or comments are important.

A significant proportion of adults live without children of their own, either due to involuntary or voluntary childlessness. Experiences vary greatly: for some, it is a painful and long process, for others a clear choice, and for many something else. All experiences are equally valuable.

This theme has been with me for a long time, both in my own life and in my work as a psychologist, where I have supported many individuals and couples in issues related to childlessness. I want to highlight the range of experiences and the many ways in which people can build a good life even without the experience of parenthood.

Participating in the survey

Who: people living without children, involuntarily or by choice, especially men, but also women are welcome to answer.
Response time extended: until April 6, 2026.

You can respond briefly or at length, in your own way. All responses will be treated anonymously and with complete confidentiality.

If you would like to participate or request additional information, please contact us at: heli.heiskanen@origonova.fi

Thank you very much for helping to increase understanding of this important and relevant topic!

Warm regards,
Heli Heiskanen
Psychologist, author, trainer