June 25, 2025

Amidst the growing prevalence of childlessness across many societies today, there is increasing concern about the support received by older individuals. Despite this concern, little research has explored the interplay between childlessness and sibling structure in the provision of upward intergenerational support.

The study ‘Childlessness and Sibling Positioning in Upward Intergenerational Support: Insight from Singapore’ (Journal of Marriage and Family, 2024) by Dr. Kim Dahye (NUS Centre for Family and Population Research), Associate Professor Christine Ho (Singapore Management University), and Associate Professor Bussarawan Teerawichitchainan (NUS Sociology and Anthropology) addresses this gap. Focusing on Singapore, which is characterised by an ageing population, high rates of childlessness, and a deeply ingrained culture of filial support, the study examines whether childless individuals deviate from existing patrilinear practices of supporting older parents.

Firstly, the researchers found that while childless individuals tend to experience less emotional closeness with their parents, they often provide more instrumental support compared to those with their own children. Childless individuals also maintain more frequent contact and live closer to their parents. The researchers also found that existing gendered patrilinear practices, which traditionally see sons playing a primary role in supporting ageing parents, are less pronounced among childless individuals. While the findings are heartening as they demonstrate the continuous upholding of values of filial piety and familism, the researchers highlight that this support may arise more out of necessity than choice, due to the absence of extensive family networks.  This is particularly pertinent given Singapore’s fertility rate falling to a historic low of 0.97 in 2023, exacerbating concerns about the future availability of family-based support for the elderly. Overall, the study suggests that future childless and siblingless individuals may face greater pressure to support their ageing parents. This underscores the continued need for comprehensive policies to support old-age care and meet the demands across Asia’s ageing populations.

Read the article here.