I am glad that this topic is being taken seriously — and researched seriously. I was the subject of such research and identified as an “early articulator”. As far back as I’ve had sentient memory, I knew didn’t want to be a mother. I also knew that I didn’t want to get a degree in finance or become a neurosurgeon. It had nothing to do with my upbringing — I had wonderful parents who gave me a halcyon childhood. Instinctively, however, I just did NOT want to be a mom, and the mere thought was depressing. That did not change at any stage of life. Was it a decision? NO. Just like people cannot help what gender they are attracted to, I cannot help but being attracted to leading the life of a non-parent.