What Is A DINK Couple? Why This Relationship Trend Faces Backlash

The term DINK has gained popularity following an American couple's online display of their lavish lifestyle. Lilly Anne and her husband Evan, recently shared a light-hearted video on TikTok discussing their contentment with their "happy DINK life." In the clip, they humorously emphasised their ability to relish lavish outings, extravagant dining experiences, and unlimited food shopping, all attributing it to being "DINKS."

Additionally, they proudly highlighted having a surplus of disposable income, a lack of concern about unforeseen expenses, and the luxury of prioritising their hobbies like golf and football.

They're getting really out of hand with this DINK trend. pic.twitter.com/8OlLIoplKn

— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) December 6, 2023

This glimpse into Lilly and Evan's lifestyle sheds light on the essence of the "DINK" lifestyle they are currently enjoying. What exactly is the kind of lifestyle Lilly and Evan, the "DINK" couple, are enjoying? Here's what we've learned:

What Is A DINK Relationship?

Originally, DINKs, short for "Dual Income, No Kids," referred to couples without children, both working, typically indicating middle-class or affluent households with ample disposable income.

However, on social media, a new portrayal of DINKs has emerged, especially among younger couples. They showcase their lifestyle, highlighting the benefits of being child-free, such as flexible weekends, indulging in bulk purchases at stores like Costco, or pampering their pets extensively. Essentially, being a DINK provides them with more resources for personal consumption.

The way these DINK videos discuss the lifestyle seems like it's something unique and worth defending, but the truth is, not having kids is becoming increasingly common. According to a report, in the U.S., about 43% of households don't have children, which has been rising since 2012. Fertility rates are also dropping across the country. Being a DINK isn't uncommon anymore, especially among those in their 20s—it's quite standard.

Some couples making these DINK videos mention that they might want kids later but are currently enjoying their DINK life. It's okay to revel in the happiness of a newlywed life, but turning it into a branded lifestyle may not be necessary. Doing so can create an identity that might be tough to change if they decide to have children later on.

Why This Viral TikTok Trend Facing Backlash

Some people admire those embracing the "happy DINK" lifestyle without apologies, while others criticise it as a form of "hedonism." For instance, Tim Kennedy shared on X, "I find this #DINK obsession very sad. The idea that you are spinning through the universe on a rock for the sole purpose of being part of consumerism is sad. DINK is the art of convincing people they need things they never knew they wanted or needed. It's a bizarre dance where our self-worth seems directly proportional to the number of things we own. They’ve reached a point where our houses (not homes) are so cluttered with impulse buys that Marie Kondo would need a SWAT team just to enter."

He added, "But hey, who needs inner peace or a family when you can have another kitchen gadget that promises to chop vegetables and sing a lullaby simultaneously? Consumerism: where retail therapy meets a dark, comedic tragedy of a pointless existence."

I find this #DINK obsession very sad. The idea that you are spinning through the universe on a rock for the sole purpose of being part of consumerism is sad. DINK is the art of convincing people they need things they never knew they wanted or needed.

— Tim Kennedy (@TimKennedyMMA) December 7, 2023