A complex look at the decision to have a child.
             Having a baby has become an increasingly popular idea, causing thousands of couples and singles alike to consider parenthood. As Engel (1998) points out, "...the decision to have a baby (adopt a child) is not reversible." Becoming a parent means you are ultimately responsible for another human being's emotional and physical well-being. Many factors and decisions are to be made in choosing to have a child. Belsky & Kelly (1994), Engel (1998), and Gershaw (1996) all agree that exploring reasons to have a child, the couples' relationships, and willingness to become a parent are all very important key issues upon deciding to have a child.
             Exploring reasons for wanting a child is a psychological feature in this decision making process to have a child. As Belsky and Kelly (1994) agree, there are many aspects of the parenthood decision. Three major aspects need to be explored: 1. Whether you are physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to become a parent 2. Whether you are willing to face the changes in your lifestyle and relationship that this lifelong commitment entails 3. Whether you are emotionally able to provide the kind of environment necessary to raise a healthy child (p. 7). For example, if a potential parent were having worries at work, stress in the relationship, and fear of commitment, than it would be known that this adult is not an excellent candidate to raise a child. A survey by Engel (1998) asked women why they decided to have children. This surveyed 1,100 mothers and discovered nine out of ten women gave the reasons: "I love children" and "I wanted close family." "I wanted someone to love" was cited as important by three out of four (p. 13). Wanting someone to love is an acceptable reason to get a dog or cat, not acceptable in deciding whether or not to bring a child into this world Gershaw (1996) lists se...