[vasaulys]

I agree. I've seen a lot of people who have no intention of "settling down" or "having kids" become surprised when their peers who do exactly that become more "successful" (earn more money, move up in job position, etc.). I think making the decision to have kids instills a bit of discipline to get something stable in life.

[hurbledr]

IIRC there are also studies that suggest employers are more likely to give you raises, promotions, and increased hours if you have a family.

[bzudo]

It's anecdotal, but I think my employer does the same thing. If true, it seems strange to reward a person for a personal choice.

[giardini]

vasaulys says> "I think making the decision to have kids instills a bit of discipline to get something stable in life."

I think this is not necessarily so. However...

I've seen a number of persons who have children and who believe your statement (or similar statements, e.g., "Having kids makes you more responsible", etc.) to be true.

And so they promote/hire a younger person who has chosen to pursue a family path rather than a more qualified person with a superior skill set.