Keep a separate account for having a child for your elders, for the marriage, and for old-age support

Moderate value
Evidence C
Saves money
Free
Takes minutes
Some willpower

In plain words

That other people hope you will have a child can count as one of your considerations. But the time and money are recorded on your own account. "Raising a son to provide for old age" (养儿防老) should be counted as a separate item, because it bets on another person's finances and willingness twenty years from now. Also write down the consequences of not having a child, and compare the two sides.

Cost: Free; it costs one serious conversation. The hard part is saying things out loud instead of going around them.
What you get: The reasoning is the same as §10. Other people's expectations can count as one of your considerations. But the costs go on your own account, not on theirs. "Raising a son to provide for old age" in particular should be counted as a separate item, because it assumes another person's finances and willingness twenty years from now.
Notes: Write down "the consequences of not having a child" too, and put it next to "the consequences of having one" to compare.
Evidence grade: C : The author's experience or common practice, without direct literature.
Sources: 作者经验，无直接文献
同类分析见第 10 节

Translated from the Chinese original. Original book, section 18, tip 6. Content may be out of date and rules differ by place. When you actually deal with an agency, a doctor or a court, follow what local officials, doctors and lawyers tell you. Disclaimer