Teen Life Q&A: Is the age difference between you too big?

Does age really matter, when is an age gap too big?

by Mike Hardcastle

for About.com

My boyfriend is 28 and I’m 16. My parents don’t approve, my friends think it’s creepy and his family says it’s disgusting but we’re in love. Am I crazy thinking love can conquer all or does age really matter? When is an age gap too big?

To say “he is X number of years older than you and that is too much older” is an oversimplification of a complex situation. In matters of the heart things don’t always make sense, timing isn’t always right and people are not always in the same age group. Large age differences can be overcome if people are at similar places in their lives. That said, when you are a teen and your partner is a full grown adult the chances that you are in similar places in your life are slim to none.  Read entire article here.

Gayle’s Commentary

This article gives some practical advice that really makes sense.  I know the article is aimed at teens, but we “adults” could benefit from what Mike has to say (just read between the lines a bit.)  We know that no single formula always works when it comes to the right amount of age difference in a May December couple.  I also know lots of people wish there was a rule.  So if you want a rule, the only one you are going to get is the one legislated where you live.  With that said, we also know that just because an age gap is legal doesn’t mean it is wise.  There’s a lot of common sense in this article.