As internet trends continue to surprise netizens, discussions about “dink” relationships are gaining traction online, have a look at the meaning of the term on TikTok
Numerous parents are using social media platforms to criticize couples without children, sparked by long-time partners on TikTok extolling the advantages of a child-free life.
Explained what is the meaning of relationship term Dink as couple video go viral on TikTok
They're getting really out of hand with this DINK trend. pic.twitter.com/8OlLIoplKn
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) December 6, 2023
If the DINK videos are confusing you – this should help 🔥 pic.twitter.com/jJU1niAVQc
— Will Goren (@RealWillGoren) December 6, 2023
For the uninitiated, “dink” stands for Dual Income, No Kids, signifying that certain couples enjoy more disposable income without the financial responsibilities of raising children.
Despite its recent resurgence online, the acronym originated in the 80s when Nikki Finke wrote about it in an article for the Los Angeles Times. Various reasons prompt people to choose a childless lifestyle, ranging from concerns about climate change to medical or financial considerations.
TikToker @johnefinance shared the perks of being in a “dink” relationship, highlighting activities like weekend shopping at Trader Joe’s and workout classes, indulging in hobbies like skiing and golfing, and the freedom to plan spontaneous trips.
Dink Couple Mentioned Benefits
Other benefits mentioned by “dink” couples include ample sleep, the ability to order desserts and appetizers without restraint, and not having to use kids or dogs as excuses to leave parties.
Additional testimonials from couples underscored the freedom to dine out nightly, financial independence from family, and the luxury of buying desired snacks in bulk. As the term gained popularity, critics argued that a childless life seemed unfulfilling, while some engaged in relentless trolling of the couples.
Origination
Notably, Candace Owens, a Republican commentator and social media personality, used her YouTube channel to disparage the trend, characterizing those embracing childless relationships as “selfish brats” destined for loneliness in their later years.
Nikki Finke traced the origins of this lifestyle trend back to 1987, citing a desire to “beat inflation and income stagnation.” With inflation persisting as a contemporary concern, it’s unsurprising that couples from Gen X, millennials, and even Gen Z are increasingly opting for child-free lives.
A 2021 Pew Research Center study revealed that 44% of non-parents aged 18 to 49 expressed no desire or plans to have children in the future, marking a 37% increase since 2018.
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