dating down

If there's one thing that makes the world, mainly old men very, very angry, its the older lady + younger man love equation. Age disparate relationships have historically faced stigma, those between older women and younger men often bearing the brunt of societal judgment. Despite the sexist undertones in the term "cougar," society is gradually shifting its perspective on age-gap relationships, especially when the woman is older. However, this shift isn't without its challenges and controversies.Derogatory labels such as "cougar" and "jaguar" imply predatory behavior on the part of women who choose to date younger men. The desire is often mutual, women are dating down (in age) while younger men enjoy dating up (in all ways)!

Dating an older isn't just a new trend—it's a lifestyle choice challenging outdated norms and celebrates love in all its forms.

Women no longer need to rely on men for financial security, giving them the freedom to choose partners based on factors like physical attractiveness and vitality.

In media and pop culture, older woman/younger man relationships often face scrutiny and criticism, highlighting a double standard that's deeply ingrained in our collective consciousness. While older men dating younger women are often portrayed as normal or even enviable, the reverse scenario tends to raise eyebrows. The reaction to Sandra Bullock's on-screen romance with Trevante Rhodes in "Bird Box," which sparked debates about the realism of such relationships.

Yet, despite the stigma, more older women are finding themselves attracted to younger men, and vice versa. Women no longer need to rely on men for financial security, giving them the freedom to choose partners based on factors like physical attractiveness and vitality. Societal pressures persist, with older women facing judgment from family members and even their own grown children.

The statistics support this evolving landscape. With women statistically outliving men, it's not surprising that widows and divorcees are exploring romantic connections with younger partners. For many, these relationships offer newfound joy and fulfillment, challenging ageist stereotypes along the way.

For some (women), it's about reclaiming their sexuality and exploring new experiences. Others value the freedom and spontaneity that comes with dating a younger partner.

Celebrities like Demi Moore, Gabrielle Union, Priyanka Chopra, Cher and Eva Mendes have all played a role in normalizing age-gap relationships, showcasing the diverse forms love can take. Their high-profile romances challenge societal norms and inspire others to embrace unconventional partnerships.

So why do older women choose to date younger men? The reasons are as varied as the individuals involved. For some, it's about reclaiming their sexuality and exploring new experiences. Others value the freedom and spontaneity that comes with dating a younger partner. Financial independence and a desire for casual relationships are also factors.

There are plenty of reasons why older women hesitate to date younger guys. The reality is more and more women are dating and enjoying the company of guys younger than them. 
Research found that 63% of total dating app users are open to dating with an age gap; 59% of women say now more open to dating someone younger. And while women traditionally tend to date men older than them, 35% say they've become less judgmental towards relationships with an age gap over the last year. Of the women surveyed, 31% say they're no longer focused on adhering to traditional timelines and milestones.

59% of women say now more open to dating someone younger

While 72% of women are looking for a long-term relationship, only 23% of women are looking to get married. Avoiding partners who pressured them was a consideration of 16% of women globally and 18% in the U.S. In our increasingly divided times, dating those whose values align with your own is also important to many.

A recent survey showed that 81% of women are open to dating someone 10 years younger than they are, and that nearly 90% of men are interested in dating someone 10 years older. The data doesn’t lie, more women are open to dating younger men and that more men are open to dating older women than most people might think. 

Despite the data, media is still covering relationships and dating from a primitive perspective. Dating across generational boundaries isn't just a passing trend—it's a reflection of society's changing attitudes towards love and relationships. As long as everyone is a consenting adult, love and desire knows no age. Whether you're an older woman or a younger man, your happiness and fulfillment deserve to be celebrated. Live long and prosper, friends!