" While childless couples are constantly asked, ‘Why they are not having children,’ my husband and I are bombarded with a different set of questions: ‘Why would you have so many?’ or ‘Are you done having children?’ "
- Mercedes Schlapp

The statement highlights a societal observation where childless couples face frequent inquiries about their decision to remain without children, whereas parents with multiple children encounter different kinds of queries regarding their family planning choices. These questions often reflect underlying assumptions and judgments about what is considered a normal or desirable number of children.

This quote delves into the broader social dynamics surrounding parenthood and fertility decisions. It underscores how societal expectations and norms can influence personal choices and provoke intrusive questioning. Parents with larger families might feel judged for their reproductive choices, while those without children may be pressured to justify their decision not to have kids. Both situations reveal the complexity of navigating these discussions in a society where childbearing is often seen as an essential part of adulthood and family life.

Mercedes Schlapp is known for her insightful commentary on social issues, particularly those related to parenting and family dynamics. Her observations shed light on the sometimes uncomfortable conversations that surround reproductive choices and the varied pressures faced by individuals based on their personal decisions regarding family size.