How to Date Someone Younger When You Have Children
Is dating someone significantly younger acceptable?
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Does age matter when it comes to relationships? What are some of the extra challenges couples face who have a big age gap between them? For many, a difference in age is not a big deal at all. But for others, it can cause problems when one person is entering and experiencing a completely different life stage than the other. For one iMag reader, he wanted to know if a 16-year age difference between him and his girlfriend is inappropriate considering he has a young daughter.
Diana,
I would love to ask your opinion on a relationship with someone 16 years younger than I am. I am 44 ... Stay in great shape, very successful and still a huge kid at heart. I am really enjoying it but feel guilty because I have a 10-year-old daughter who is my world and do not know if I would consider that acceptable. We get along great ... I would totally love your thoughts.
Bryan
Hi Bryan,
To many age is nothing but a number but age is reflective of our life experience. A twenty-something who has never been married or had a child will not understand the firsthand plight of a divorced, single father; however that does not mean that person is incapable of sympathy for your situation nor does it mean that she will not be a suitable partner for you. In many ways, you have to judge whether your current relationship is one for companionship and fun, or more. If it is simply for fun, then keep your relationship between the two of you. Do not introduce your daughter to your new romantic interest. However, if some time passes and you believe that this woman could be a long-term partner, I suggest handling the situation gingerly. You must be sure that she is someone you foresee being a good role model to your daughter.
I do not think you are doing anything wrong right now. Just make sure to put your relationship in the right context; once you know what that is the answers will come more readily.
All the best,
Diana
If you have a relationship question, email Diana and we'll try to feature your (anonymous) question and her answer!
For more:
Is It Ever Okay to Be 'the Other Woman'?
5 Pitfalls to Dating Older or Younger
5 Things Women Want Most in a Man
Diana Falzone is a talk show host, relationship expert, and writer. She is an advice columnist at mywingmandiana.military.com . She can be seen, heard, and read as a relationship expert on various TV networks, radio stations, and websites.
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