Why is it seen as more innapropriate for women to date younger men, than for men to date younger women?

Question

I have often wondered this question because, espiceally in young adults, it is seen as "weird" for women to date down, yet it is perfectly acceptable for a man to date a younger girl. Does this make sense to anyone?

Answer 1

It's appropriate for a man to be older because the man is usually seen as the dominant partner in a romantic relationship with a woman.

When the man is older than the woman, then this only confirms and re-enforces the cultural expectation that the man should be dominant.

But when the man is younger, then you have a conflict of cultural expectations. People expect the man to be dominant because he is the man. But at the same time they expect the older person to be dominant because of her greater experience and knowledge about life.

It's inappropriate for an older person to be subordinate to a younger one in family relationships. And that's why it is seen as inappropriate for older women to date younger men.

Answer 2

I think it just goes back to old-fashioned gender roles, wherein the man was expected to be the provider. In this day and age women can provide for themselves and are often the primary breadwinner in couples. And the age thing is changing along with that. I'm 11 years older than my boyfriend; we're both adults and we have formed a loving, functioning partnership. And I haven't really gotten any negative reaction about our relationship although it was hard even for me to get used to the idea at first!

Answer 3

Well, its a matter of degree isn't it? I mean most people are grossed out by 80 year old geezers dating 20 year old girls.
40 plus year old women friends of mine tell me they are getting hit on by 20 something year old guys. With Demi Moore and Susan Surandan dating/married that younger guy it seems more "chic" these days.
Part of it is a matter of prevalence- I mean many younger women are looking for older guys and are looking for "a father figure" and the older men are happy to oblige. There's generally less motivation for younger guys to date older women- but don't knock it until you try it- they do have lots of "experience"!
Generally I agree with other answers, people seem to care less- inter-racial dating is becoming more common. If you meet someone, they treat you well, you're happy with them... Go For It!

Answer 4

Use to be worse. It's gotten better. I date younger men, but I think I look younger than my age too.
Women have always been held to a higher standard than men. Probably something to do with the Virgin Mary or something men dreamed up because of their own insecurities.

Answer 5

I know EXACTLY what you mean. And, it is kind of weird. I think it stems from olden days when women's role in life was rather subservient to men's, comparatively. And somehow, it `stuck'. Although it's probably not broadly `advertised' I think that it does go on as people will always be drawn to certain people and that's the way it is!
Hope this helped.

Answer 6

it makes no sense at all; especially considering the fact that men and woman come into their sexual peak at different times in their lives... men in their late teens and twenties; woman in their late thirties and forties.

however, I would look for emotional stability and security as well, if I were looking for a partner to share my life with.

Answer 7

It's all just gender superiority. Personally I am 6 years older than my boyfriend and it's all good!

Answer 8

I DONT KNOW BUT I LIKE OLDER WOMEN AND IM KINDA YOUNG

Answer 9

I don't think anyone cares anymore really.

Answer 10

not today --