Concept Project
UX Research & App Development
Brief:
Self-initiated project exploring how UX design could support people choosing to live childfree.
The goal was to uncover their challenges, needs, and opportunities, then translate those insights into concepts for an app centred on connection, events, and resources.
Challenge:
With few existing platforms or dedicated spaces for this community, there was little precedent to draw from.
This required careful research to understand both the social and emotional experiences of being childfree, and to identify where design could provide genuine value.
Solution / Approach:
I conducted surveys, one-on-one interviews, and market research to capture both quantitative and qualitative perspectives. Insights were synthesised through affinity mapping, which helped define a clear problem statement and scoping framework.
Impact:
While the project is still in progress, the research has provided a strong foundation for future design concepts.
The early findings point toward meaningful opportunities to create resources and foster connection within the childfree community - demonstrating both my interest in designing for real human needs and my ability to independently apply UX methods outside of client-driven work.
Client
Personal Project
Year
2025+
"Childfree individuals, who value community and connection, often feel overlooked in a society where familial milestones are the norm.
They seek opportunities to meet like-minded people and access supportive resources, but encounter limited spaces that truly acknowledge and support their lifestyle choices."
— Problem Statement
Research Approach
To better understand the experiences of people living a childfree life, I used both quantitative and qualitative methods.
Quantitative survey (n=138): Shared within a global childfree community, this survey explored demographics, perceptions of stigma, and current ways people connect. The scale allowed me to identify broad patterns and recurring themes.
Qualitative interviews (n=3): Conducted locally with childfree women, these conversations provided richer context and personal stories. Their voices added nuance and depth to the survey findings, helping me connect statistical patterns with lived experiences.
By combining the breadth of survey data with the depth of personal interviews, I was able to build a more holistic understanding of the community’s motivations, challenges, and opportunities for design.
Who I Spoke To
Patterns & Themes
Interview Insights
Theme 1 -
Autonomy in Life Choices
Participants emphasised personal agency in choosing to remain childfree. Rather than simply rejecting parenthood, they described making intentional decisions based on values and self-understanding.
“I’ve always known parenthood wasn’t for me. Even in long-term relationships where my partners wanted kids, I stayed true to my own choice. It’s not about rejecting children - I adore them. It’s about staying authentic to my life and values.”
Interviewee, F, 26
Theme 2 -
Valuing Lifestyle Freedom
The childfree choice allowed participants to prioritise experiences, travel, and hobbies, as well as deep personal connections. This freedom was described as central to their happiness and sense of fulfilment.
“The biggest plus for us not having kids is our lifestyle. Our home is full of things we love - books, a projector, spa, houseplants, cats - and we travel almost every weekend. Life is rich and full, and I couldn’t imagine giving up even a bit of it.”
Interviewee, F, 40
Theme 3 -
Experiencing Social Pressure
Participants regularly encountered assumptions or questions about parenthood from friends, family, and society. This pressure often highlighted the tension between societal norms and personal choices, reinforcing the importance of self-awareness and resilience.
“Being in my mid-thirties with a husband and a spare bedroom, I constantly get asked when we’ll have a baby. I’ve made a conscious choice to live differently - it’s about responsibility, thoughtfulness, and valuing my own life. That’s okay, isn’t it?”
Interviewee, F, 38