Is it wrong that I’m suddenly more interested in dating younger after my breakup?

[AnikaMehta]

I recently went through a breakup and I’m finally starting to look out there again. I’ve noticed that I’m much more drawn to people younger than me this time around, but I’m overthinking if that’s "wrong" or just a rebound phase.

I feel like I’m looking for a different energy or maybe just a fresh start without the same old expectations. Has anyone else felt this way after a long relationship? Am I setting myself up for disaster, or should I just follow my gut and see where it goes?

[SueShe]

There is nothing wrong in dating younger or older than you are as long as those people you plan on dating are adults, that is above the age of 18 in most civilized countries, that they are consenting and are not coerced or otherwise forced against their will to date another person.

You are basically free to date whomever you want within those limits and it is of nobody's business to judge you for what you do as long as you stay within the limits of the applicable law of your country.

You may, however be judged but that should not prevent you from living your life.

[Kelley1]

Provided they are at least age 16 (the age of consent in 31 states), there is nothing wrong with dating younger guys. Whether or not that is advisable depends on what you want. If you are seeking short-term relationships (one day to three months), you can find many very attractive guys that you can have, including 16-year-old boys.

However, if you are seeking a long-term relationship, that will greatly limit your options. Men date way down for sex but for a long-term relationships men choose equals or who they consider equals. Men place a higher value on women their age and younger. They consider older women as less desirable. Therefore, the only younger men that are available for a long-term relationship will be unattractive guys.

[MrChinaski]

There's nothing wrong with that. 100% normal. It brings its unique challenges in my experience, but so does every pairing. Do what makes you happy.

Kids seem likely to be the thorniest issue. You are 32. If you want them, then hopefully without me causing offence to everyone, you probably are aiming to find an enduring partner by 35, marry or commit, and have a child at say 37. These are all rubbery figures, but that's about the range female friends have talked to me about. At what age will a younger guy be likely to be willing to commit to having kids? On the flipside, if you don't want kids, at what age will a younger guy know he also never wants kids.

[Subtle_Luminescence]

Ehh.. not really. As long as your mind clicks with them well enough, you're good to go. I was with a 34 year old divorced woman when I was 22. It lasted for one sweet year. My most valuable relationship ever!

[AnikaMehta]

I was actually worried about being objectified on here, but you definitely don’t give off that vibe. You sound like the kind of 'click' I was talking about. I’d love to see if our minds 'click' as well as you say. Drop into my inbox? I’d rather talk to you where it’s more private

[Subtle_Luminescence]

Ok sure.

[Anonymous]

It is not wrong to crave a different energy after a major life change; in fact, it is quite common to seek a fresh start that feels lighter and less burdened by the serious expectations of your previous relationship.

While it is important to remain mindful of whether you are avoiding deeper emotional processing, following your gut and exploring these new dynamics is a valid part of redefining your identity post-breakup.

As long as the connections are built on mutual respect and clear communication, there is no reason to overthink your attraction; just stay grounded in what you truly need from a partner as you move forward.

Good luck

[Spencer10]

It could be a phase. But there is nothing wrong with dating younger either. We all like we like. Nothing is carved in stone and these preferences can change as well. Trust your gut seems like an acceptable strategy to me.

[serious]

I think this is just your rebound phase. Instead of going with your emotions, it is better to be logical and take calculated steps.

Well, if you simply choose to follow your emotions, your gut then most likely it won't end up well for you. Chances are high that you are setting yourself up for getting hurt again. With emotions, feelings, gut etc these are variable and cannot be trusted.

[uzumymw]

Nothing wrong with it, but watch out you don't get too low and young. There is a big difference in age as you date younger. Some might look mature for their age at first, but it can get tricky.

Do you have a feel on how much younger you're thinking?

[Abbycado]

There’s nothing wrong with it as long as they are of legal age.

[Telekinetic-Potato]

I think some women do it for the same reason as men: more energy, less butterness, higher willingness to subscribe to some new points of view that you hold which validates your ability to add someth8ng meaningful to the relationship.

[Hagar88]

No. When I was in my teens and twenties I dated older women in their 30s & 40s. Obviously I was never going to get serious with them.

[queenofcardio]

Maybe it isn't the age but a certain vibe you're looking for.

[WhitneySnow]

I think it’s cool and I hope you find someone you like who likes you back

[DextroShade]

You are just going to get passed around by these younger guys and you will end up old, bitter, ran-through, and alone.

[Anonymous]

How much younger than you, like twenties? NP. You just want a change, honey.

[LiamS95]

There is nothing wrong with dsting younger guys.

[jahaims]

Younger is easier to manipulate and are less mature. All downsides

[Nikki1989]

That is your call.

[slatyb]

It's not wrong. You like what you like.

[Bloodparadise]

I don't know.. could be hot