Does Age Difference in Relationships Matter?

May-December romances have been around since romances have existed.  At some times throughout history, this age difference was the norm especially when it applied to an older man, younger woman relationship.  In modern society, though, it is more acceptable to have a relationship where the couple is similar in age.  However, there still exists relationships that have a significant age difference and now it is not limited to gender or sexual orientation.  Nowadays you see older women with younger men, older men with younger women and age disparities within same sex couples.  Although there is no longer such a stigma attached to it, does age difference in a relationship matter?

If one of the people in a relationship is a minor then the age difference matters quite a bit.  There will likely be legal ramifications to the age difference relationship that may haunt the older person for the rest of their life.  There will also be parental and familial concerns that may make the age difference in the relationship rocky at best. 

But assuming that everyone in the age difference relationship is over eighteen, whether or not the age difference matters depends on many factors.  The older each person is in the couple, the less age difference seems to matter.  However, if one of the people in the relationship is still relatively young, age difference could lead to some problems.  People who are young are still developing their personalities, tastes and preferences.  Sometimes this age difference can lead to problems as the relationship develops and time passes, the younger person grows up and realizes that there is nothing in common anymore.  What the younger person thought they wanted at one time, they no longer want. 

Common interests are certainly a factor in a successful age difference relationship and it is quite possible for a couple with a significant age difference in relationships to have common interests.  If this is the case, you have a good foundation and can communicate effectively, there is no reason why the relationship can not work and be quite positive for all involved.  However, when there is an age difference, there is more likelihood that there may be some problems in common interests and points of reference. 

Examine your relationship goals before embarking in an age difference commitment with a person who is significantly older or younger.  Financial issues can arise as it is generally accepted that someone older is more established and financially secure simply because they have had more time to become so.  If this is not an issue for either person, then there should be no problem.  Family issues can also arise.  Consider that someone who is younger may want to start a family and the older person may not be willing or capable of such. 

With age difference in relationships where there is a significant age difference there are various factors that should be considered.  This does not mean, though, that it can not be a successful, happy relationship.  As long as the parties with the age difference are reasonable about expectations and communicate effectively, then there is no reason why an age difference should matter.