AGE GAP DATING
“Men Dating Younger Women Isn’t Disgusting”
Some people think that this is a gross, disgusting, and downright creepy practice. But is it really?
I’ve come across a Medium article that says men who date younger women are disgusting and they look like pedophiles.
While I appreciate this opinion, allow me to share mine too.
Working in the matchmaking industry allowed me to learn a lot of things about relationships, including age-gap couples.
Throughout history, men have been dating younger women, and it’s not just because they’re “creepy” or “unattractive” to women their own age.
In many cultures, age gaps are seen as a sign of status, wisdom, or wealth. So before you start judging, remember that what’s considered “normal” or “appropriate” varies depending on where you are in the world.
Is it wrong?
I’ve seen hundreds of age-gap couples thriving and living happily in their relationships, so I can’t say this dynamic is inherently wrong.
However, I also consider the fact that it can be problematic if and when there is no consent and there is someone underaged involved.
Let me explain further.
Just like any normal relationship, consent must be present in this dynamic. Consent indicates that you respect each other’s autonomy and integrity.
The people involved must be at the right age and mature enough to know how to handle this kind of relationship.
An age-gap relationship must have two consenting adults for it to work. Otherwise, it will indeed be creepy and disgusting.
Come to think of it, if you’re a grown adult and you’re trying to date someone who can’t even legally buy a drink, that’s not a relationship — that’s a crime.
Is there a power play?
People are quick to assume that power plays are inherent age-gap relationships, where there is manipulation and exploitation.
For instance, the older and more experienced individual will have more power and control than the other, and/or the younger partner is only with the older one for their money or status.
However, let me tell you this — these assumptions are just that, assumptions. They don’t necessarily reflect the reality of the relationship.
Yes, it’s possible for someone to take advantage of a younger partner, but that’s true in any relationship, regardless of age.
The key is to make sure that both partners are on equal footing and that there’s mutual respect and trust. If those things are in place, then age really is just a number.
Stop the stigma.
As someone who has seen how age-gap relationships work, I can confidently say that this dynamic can be equal and respectful, with both partners having an equal say in the relationship and an equal amount of power.
In the end, it all boils down to preferences. Whether you’re into younger women, older men, or something else entirely, it’s not anyone else’s business.
That said, men dating younger women is not disgusting. It’s a personal choice that should be based on mutual consent and respect.
If two people happen to connect despite an age gap, then more power to them. Life is too short to worry about what other people think.
As long as both partners are happy and fulfilled, that’s all that matters.