Age Differences in Romantic Relationships?
By deeble
@deeble (102)
January 15, 2007 8:08pm CST
I was wondering what everyone's opinions are on age difference, in a relationship
How much older, and how much younger would you be willing to go?
Do you think the age of the people make a difference (ie, a 10 year age difference: Is it more acceptable if one person is 56 and the other 46, than it would be if one person was 26 and the other 16?)?
Have you had a relationship wher there's been quite a big age gap, and how (if at all) did this affect your relationship?
1 person likes this
5 responses
@jeepstergirl (396)
• United States
25 Jan 07
I don't think I would date any man younger than myself, unless he showed real maturity. So far, in my experience, I haven't met many men that fit that bill. I have dated guys that were up to 11 years older than myself, and was always happy in those situations. I just prefer men to be men, not immature boys. While I can appreciate a sense of humor, I want someone who understands that there is a time and place for it. As far as my being older (say if I were 50 or older) than maybe dating a younger guy wouldn't be such a big deal. Right now, it would be weird for me, though.
@deeble (102)
•
25 Jan 07
I'm 9 years older than my 'other half'. I'm 30, he's 21..
I honestly never thought I'd go for that kind of age gap. At least not while I was this age. But we've been together a year now, and I think it's been the most 'mature' relationship I've ever had!
Having said that, he's not your typical 21 year old bloke.
The oldest man I've ever dated, was 8 years older than me, and he turned out to be married!!
@icebucks (127)
• Philippines
5 Feb 07
i really think there's no problem as long as you are compatible and truly love each other. I think its much acceptable when your in 30's and have a relationship with a 20's thatn into somthing that involves a teen. Cos there's will always be the issue of the level of maurity of a teenager to be in a relationship.
@maryannemax (12156)
• Sweden
16 Jan 07
i haven't been personally into such a relationship. but two of my friends were. one friend is 26 and married a 49 year old man. the other is 29 and married a 51 year old man. both relationships are happy and both of my friends are satisfied with their lives. i don't think age really matters when it comes to loving someone.
@danishcanadian (28953)
• Canada
16 Jan 07
There are thirty-five years between my Sweetheart and I. I'm 24, he's 60. We really don't notice the age difference. I never was one to get along with people my age. Cool question!
@Aussies2007 (5336)
• Australia
25 Jan 07
The biggest problem with age difference is the generation gap between two people.
At 26 you have barely left your teen years to become an adult. Do you really want to be dragged back in your teen years by having a relationship with a 16 year old?
There are a lot of older men in their 40's who hook up with a younger woman after getting divorce. Seeing them with a woman 15 years younger is quite common. Funny enough... those relations seem to work... but it requires the woman to be more mature than her age and the man has to maintain an active life. It would not work if the man was just sitting on the front of the tele every day.
A man of 56 with a woman of 46 works perfectly. The other way around probably won't work however. Because older men like younger women to keep them young.
The only time it works with an older woman is when you are in your early 20's. My girlfriend was 26 when I was 21 and those were exciting years.
