<p>I'm actually in Israel where it's very common for a 21 year old to encounter men of over 24 years old for dates (because all the 21 year olds are in the Army or off traveling and just totally wanting to be uncommitted). It was scary at first because in the States, when you're sitting across the table from a 25 year old, your American instinct goes "25 and he's working and I'm still in school). But then I realized that this guy is also a student working towards his BA just as I am. We just happen to be in same life stages, which make it easier for both of us to get along despite the age difference.</p>
<p>Therefore, when you are young, try to be with someone who's in your life stage because s/he'll be more understanding and be able to relate better than someone who's been out of your stage for several years.</p>
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Therefore, when you are young, try to be with someone who's in your life stage because s/he'll be more understanding and be able to relate better than someone who's been out of your stage for several years.
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<p>But sometimes people in another life stage are more attractive to certain people. Though I think as a general rule this works as well as any.</p>
<p>I like the formula. Personally, I wouldn't date anyone more than 10 years older than me right now (and that is pushing it). I would prefer the six year age range, though. It really depends on a lot of things though - respect, communication, maturity, similar interests, etc. </p>
<p>When I was in high school, I never thought about dating older men, but now I do because older men are more mature, for the most part.</p>
<p>I think it definitely depends on the person. I have a friend (female/24) who was seeing a 19 year old. They were in two completely different places, and it was usually quite awkward. Whereas my boyfriend right now is 26 to my 22 and it's a great relationship.</p>
<p>My parents are ten years apart. My mom was 18 when she met my dad and now she is 52. Their relationship leaves much to be desired. When I talk to her now about why she thinks their marriage has suffered she attributes much of it to the age difference but more so to the fact that my dad was the first guy who really took notice of her.</p>
<p>So my (next) question is this: How do so many people get stuck in bad relationships for so long? What are some red flags to look for early on?</p>
<p>One criteria to look for in a person is whether they work and/or go to school...in other words, have some form of responsibility and stability. Stay away from people who do drugs and drink alot. Stay away from people who are too controlling...for example, people who try to keep you away from your friends and want to be the only one in your life is a red flag. </p>
<p>People get stuck in bad relationships because sometimes they are too close to the relationship that they can't really see what's right in front of them. Usually the problems are so apparent to everyone else but the person involved either chooses to ignore them or are just completely oblivious to them.</p>