Karly B., 29, a communications specialist in New York, established a "no marriage" rule from the start of her dating life. Her current boyfriend, despite wanting to start a family, had to accept this view to maintain the relationship.

For nearly a decade, they shared many milestones: a long-distance relationship, college graduation, and simultaneous unemployment. However, Karly asserts she does not need a piece of paper to validate her love. "We are happy as we are, and that is enough," she said.

Jess Iacullo enjoying time with her boyfriend. Photo: New York Post

Karly exemplifies the rising "I Don't" generation in the West, a term contrasting the traditional "I do" marriage vow. A 2023 study by the Pew Research Center revealed that over half (52-54%) of American women believe marriage is no longer an essential factor for a fulfilling life.

Doctor Jacquie Del Rosario, a relationship consultant, identifies this as a wave of women re-evaluating marriage's value. "This trend increasingly prioritizes autonomy and personal fulfillment over tradition," she said.

The main reason for this shift stems from economic independence. Young women today have a higher university graduation rate than men. The percentage of women owning their homes in America has doubled in the past 40 years. Women currently hold 29% of senior leadership positions at Fortune 500 companies (500 largest American companies).

Beyond economics, the fear of losing freedom is a major barrier for many.

Jess Iacullo, 30, a business owner in Pennsylvania, has been dating for 5 years but does not plan to marry. She fears that becoming a wife would unconsciously mean sacrificing her personal identity for family.

"I have not seen many marriages where the woman retains her individuality. Instead of 'I', she becomes 'we'," Iacullo shared, adding that she wants to avoid gender stereotypes like wives cooking or cleaning for husbands.

Mike Kocsis, a health expert at Balance My Hormones, notes that in traditional marriage, men often gain more health and well-being benefits from receiving care, while women typically assume the role of "giver".

For many women like Chloe Bow, 33, canceling an engagement and choosing to live alone brought the peace she sought. "I realized marriage can be an obstacle. I have never felt as comfortable and enjoyed life as fully as when I focused solely on myself," Bow said.

However, this trend poses a challenge for men who still value traditional norms. A 33-year-old man in New York shared: "I understand why women feel marriage no longer brings benefits, but this is sad for men who desire an equal relationship."

He believes marriage is a way to formalize love and commitment before family.

By Nhat Minh (According to New York Post)