Why choosing pets over kids may reveal your core values: Psychology

Choosing whether to have children is one of the most personal decisions an adult can make. Some people want to raise biological children, while others choose adoption. Some decide not to become parents at all. Others build their families around partners, friends, relatives and companion animals. Psychology suggests that choosing to become a pet parent instead of raising or adopting a child should not automatically be interpreted as avoiding responsibility, emotional distance or an inability to form meaningful relationships. People's decisions about family and caregiving are influenced by their experiences, relationships, finances, health, career plans, values and personal preferences. Pets can also become important sources of companionship and emotional support. Research has found that people can develop strong bonds with companion animals, although those relationships should not be treated as identical to parent-child relationships.Psychology says caregiving can take different formsCaring for a pet is a long-term responsibility.