In Germany, childlessness has been at a very high level for some time. It is known that time, financial and structural problems contribute to fewer children being born. This article will examine which cultural models of childlessness exist and how they are related to various socio-structural factors. In addition to childbearing preferences, the reasons for childlessness and the social acceptance of childlessness were also investigated. It was established that childlessness is deemed accepted in Germany and that sanctions against childless persons do not find a majority. Despite of the widespread acceptance of childlessness, only a small group of 20 to 39-year-olds could be identified who had no children and no childbearing preferences. Two role models were found that explain childlessness in Germany from the respondents’ perspective: On the one hand, the role model of risk-avoiding parenthood which includes worries about not being able to meet sufficiently the needs of children, not being able to meet the high educational requirements and not being able to cope with the stresses of everyday life. On the other hand, there is the idea of self-governed childlessness. It underlines the self-determination and autonomy of childless people, who can enjoy their private freedom and concentrate on their professional career.