Despite all of our differences, it seems that people all over the world have at least one thing in common. Surprisingly, it’s the fact that, on average, husbands are slightly older than their wives everywhere, according to a large study.
But if we look beyond the average numbers, we see that there are all kinds of couples, including some with a significant age difference.
We believe that there is no place for stereotypes in love. So we decided to see how, according to psychologists, relationships between age differences can be successful.
Age-gap Relationships Aren’t That Big Of A Deal
As soon as the public hears about a new celebrity couple with a considerable age difference, it immediately becomes big news, which is very revealing of the fact that there is still a stigma in our society around these relationships.
This was proven by a study in which participants rated multiple couples – it found that May-December romances scored significantly lower.
When the woman is older in a relationship, she generally receives more criticism, unlike associations where the man is older. At the same time, the first type of couple tends to be seen as more egalitarian.
Still, psychologists note that women are only referred to in derogatory terms (such as “cougar” or “gold digger”), while men are often praised, which is an obvious double standard.
Relationships that keep people satisfied
The most important thing to consider here is whether people get what they want from the relationships they live in. According to this research, both men and women are more satisfied with younger partners, at least early in the relationship.
Additionally, experts say that women who specifically date younger men feel more confident and active.
How You Can Tell If It’ll Work Out
The correct answer here will be that each pair is unique and there is no universal truth. However, some common rules still apply: You and your partner should have common interests, relationship goals, and supporters.
Interestingly, some researchers think that it is not your actual age that matters, but your perceived age, so that must also be taken into account.
Differences For Same-sex Couples
Studies suggest that, in same-sex marriages, the age difference between people is usually greater compared to heterosexuals, although intergenerational homosexual couples face even more criticism.
They still feel as a unit, enjoy the mutual benefits that age differences bring, and appreciate the support of those around them.
What People Think
“I’ve been both the older and the younger in this situation. I’d say the worst thing about it is just them not getting your movie/tv/song references (and you not getting theirs) because they grew up in a completely different era of pop culture.” — FuzzyElf47/Reddit
“OTOH, it’s great to be exposed to new entertainment that you probably wouldn’t have discovered.” the_red_scimitar/Reddit
“My husband and I are 11 years apart. We got together when I was 21 and he was 32. Pros: I don’t really see an age difference. We get along very well and are best friends. I never felt like we were in different stages of life. I like to tease him that I graduated from kindergarten when he graduated from high school. Cons: I never know what movie, singer, actor, song, book, etc. it refers because it was long before my time. He really likes to make fun of me. In general, it works very well for us. ”- beautifuldisasterxx/Reddit
What is the perfect age difference between romantic partners, in your opinion?
Preview photo credit camilamcconaughey / Instagram
