Laura Gillet’s recent research explores the complex relationship between adults, pets, and children, revealing why some people may prefer caring for dogs over raising children. Her study highlights how modern societal structures, limited childcare support, and practical considerations—such as time, cost, and flexibility—make pets a manageable alternative for emotional investment and caregiving, especially among younger adults.
Interviewer: Laura, could you tell us about the topic of your research?
Laura Gillet: Sure. My research focused on the relationship between adults, dogs, and babies—specifically looking at whether adults sometimes prefer pets over children. We wanted to compare the emotional investment and commitment people have toward their pets versus children. The main theory is that humans evolved to be caregivers in traditional communities, looking after not only their own offspring but also others’ children, even if they weren’t related by genes.
Interviewer: How does that relate to modern societies?
Laura Gillet: Well, today, most people don’t have the opportunity to care for children outside their own families. Unless you’re a childcare professional or have children yourself, you rarely interact with other children in a caregiving role. In this context, pets can act as a substitute. So it’s not necessarily that people prefer pets over children—they’re just responding to the circumstances.
Interviewer: Are there specific reasons why some adults prefer pets?
Laura Gillet: Yes, for some people, especially younger generations without children, it’s not always about preference. Factors include financial constraints, climate change concerns, and overpopulation. Pets are easier to care for—they cost less, take less time, and you can leave them alone for a while, unlike children. In some cases, a small subgroup actively prefers pets, but more often it’s a practical compromise.
Interviewer: Does society play a role in this preference?
Laura Gillet: Absolutely. In individualistic societies, childcare support from the community or government is limited. Without this support, raising a child can feel overwhelming and demotivating. Pets, on the other hand, fulfill the caregiving role without requiring extensive support, making them a more feasible choice for many adults.
Interviewer: Are there cultural differences in how people approach this?
Laura Gillet: Yes, in some cultures, caring for pets together is seen as a “test” before having a child. Couples might grow a plant or care for a dog or cat together to see if they can handle shared responsibilities. Studies show that women often take on more tasks in both child and pet care, which influences decisions about having children. Many young couples may choose a pet over a child to avoid unequal responsibility while still experiencing caregiving.
Interviewer: So pets serve as both companionship and a form of practice for adult responsibilities?
Laura Gillet: Exactly. Pets provide emotional satisfaction and allow adults to engage in caregiving in a manageable way. They also help people test partnership dynamics before taking on the full responsibility of raising a child.
