The social life of non-parents: A systematic review of social networks and social support among adults without children

Across many regions of the world, more people are not having children. Non-parents are viewed more negatively than parents, particularly those who deliberately choose to forego parenthood. This systematic review synthesises existing literature on social networks and support among parents and non-parents, attempting to distinguish between different groups of non-parents, namely not-yet-parents, childless, and childfree individuals. Eighty studies were included, sourced from systematic searches of six scientific databases, supplemented by a systematic search of ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, hand searches of Google Scholar, websites of relevant organisations, reference lists from prior reviews and included studies, and contacting authors. Findings are presented using narrative synthesis, supplemented by average effect size estimates for group differences for selected aspects. Parents have larger, more stable, family-centred networks, reliant on children and relatives for support. In contrast, non-parents have smaller, more diverse networks, with closer relationships with friends and siblings, but often rely on formal (i.e. paid) sources of support. The available evidence on differences and distinctions between groups of non-parents is investigated, emphasising a need for appropriate operationalisation of reproductive status groups in future research. Implications of life course-related changes in social networks for those with and without children are discussed.