Ok, this is bugging me now... Why does everyone assume I have children?!?

Question

I know this site is often plagued by immature people, but just because I can ask a logical and mature question, why do people assume that I am in my 30's with children?! I am 19 years old, as it says in the page about me! I almost always take the time to read someone's profile before I answer them, however this seems to be an unknown courtsey to most other people. I also resent the fact that I am assumed to be older, just because I can use the English Language. I'm not particularly angry about it, just annoyed that people don't realise that there are some intelligent people under 25 out there!!

Answer 1

If you stop and think about it for a moment and take a good look around that answer might come clear. People your age are in the habit of misusing or even abusing the English language. It drives me crazy to hear people that are supposed to be high school graguates and don't even have a handle on the basics of our language. There's no excuse for it. Education at that level is free. With the proliferation of manners of speach such as "ebonics" it's no wonder that people think that you're older than you are. In other words there can't be any way that someone with a vocabulary such as yours could possibly be a "teen". If I were you I would take is as flattery and go on. Whatever you do don't "dumb yourself up" just to fit in. You sound like a bright young lady and eventually those of your own age will catch up with you in matters of maturity.

Answer 2

Yes, I think it probably is because you are articulate. And I must admit I rarely read someone's profile before I answer their question. I figure the question stands on its own, and does not need for me to check out the person who asked it. Besides, once the question is posted, it stands for a lot of other people who may have the same question in mind, but do not bother to ask it because it has already been asked and answered.

But I hear your frustration about people finding it hard to believe someone 19 years old can be so articulate. Take it as a compliment, if you can. Many people get very impressed by what you or I might consider normal, correct English. I'm afraid I blame the public schools for that. But do look about you, and see how many questions are barely readable.

It makes me think of the reaction I had when I got my IQ test results back when I joined Mensa. Many people assume this makes one conceited. It made me depressed, because I know my limitations, and here I am, holding evidence in my hand that 99% of the world's population can't even do as well as I. It really is depressing.

Answer 3

Hey girl...I know what you mean. I go through the same thing on line, in school and especially at work. The only thing I can say is that unfortunately there aren't a whole lot of people under or over a certain age who are intelligent, logical or laden with common sense so you will face the same annoying assumptions over and over again. I'm sorry but at least you know you're better than most people out there...(THANK GOD!!!!!)

Answer 4

Alright Chaz, don't let it bother you. I have noticed the same thing sometimes. But don't let it ruin the pleasure you get from using Y!A. I take time to read people's profile, but also not all the time.

To be honest, the way some people (mis) use the Y!A site you (being 19 and using your language the way you are) are probably in a minority.

Answer 5

It's just that you LOOK so old. ;-)
Seriously, you have pretty much answered your own question. Many young people, although intelligent, and equipped with a good vocabulary are often reluctant to use it because of the reception they get when they do. They are afraid that they will be considered what we old folks used to call 'uncool'. Maturity in not a matter of age, but of attitude.
Kudos to you for not being afraid to admit that you're smart.

Answer 6

Hi Chaz,

You probably shouldn't take things written, read and thought on Yahoo A. thaaaaaaaaaaaat seriously.This is a no stress zone: the answers you've gotten here tell it all. People are only some 5% serious. It's all a game, loosen up and go with the flow....:-) and you're more likely to enjoy yourself.

Answer 7

Why take it as an insult that people think your questions have the maturity of someone older and wiser, or is it that you fear getting older and do not want to be perceived this way. Your anger at this opinion you pose is not seen as intelligent on my part.
Book smarts v's street smarts

Answer 8

OK I took your advise and read your profile, I noticed one of your questions was "Is it hopelessly naive to hope for a better world for my children"??
A very fair question, but don't you think that maybe this gave the impression that you actually have children? regardless of your age.
I think the majority of your answers have got it right here, you certainly need to 'lighten up' a bit !! At the end of the day none of this is to be taken seriously !
Give my best wishes to your 5 kids!
Hope this helps??

Answer 9

I think it could be many factors why people think you have kids. Perhaps its the way you dress, your size or your personality. Maybe they think you have a way with children that is motherly so they assume you have kids. Lots of 19 year olds have kids these days. So do not worry about it too much.

Answer 10

I didn't assume you had children, and while your question DOES prove that you have some grasp of the English language, it actually shows your age; I would peg you right around eighteen or nineteen.