What do you think of an 18 year old gap in a relationship?

[Anonymous]

Im 36 and dating an 18 year old girl (turning 19 in December)
Her parents know and have no issue with it.

We are neighbours and got closer recently.

[Oliverlogan263]

Woah dude, that's a pretty massive age gap there. Here are a few thoughts:

- Legally she's an adult so nothing illegal, but maturity-wise she's basically still a kid. Your life experiences are sooo different.

- Her brain is still developing - the pre-frontal cortex isn't even fully formed yet. That impacts decision making.

- There's a huge power imbalance in the relationship since you're older/wiser/more established. It may not feel that way to her but it's there.

- Most 18 year olds are still figuring themselves out. Being in a serious relationship with someone so much older could potentially stunt her development.

- Her friends would be weirded out by the age gap for sure. Dating someone their age is more developmentally appropriate.

- You're at very different life stages - she's just starting out while you may be looking to settle down. Goals/priorities could clash down the road.

I'd say if things progress further, just tread carefully dude. Make sure this is truly an equal, healthy dynamic and not just because she's fascinated by your maturity/experience. Give her space to grow without being too dependent. Overall an 18 year gap is risky business bro.

[laraWM]

If everyone is okay, we can't really tell anything

But obviously people will make comments about it

[EmmaMary]

REPORTED...DUPLICATE.

[EmmaMary]

Thank you for the MHO.

[Nikki1989]

It might be legal, but it is still creepy.

[Asker]

I can understand.. but it involves feelings and not just physical attraction..
I know people look at us weirdly anyway

[zagor]

Fine with me.