Dating age difference

[Xandle]

So, I'm sure this has been asked many times, but age difference. I'm 19 and a half, she's 16 and 1/4 - the age of consent in my country is 16. I haven't made a meaningful move yet, and I would only even consider that age gap if I decide I really like her a lot, but... what do you think? I believe it's kind of on the edge.

[Broken Toy]

Its not really that bad. Like the difference between 13 and 16 is huge because theres a huge amount of maturing in those times, but 16 and 19 isnt that much if you get on well. But obviously i dont know what its like where youre from

[SethfromMI]

well...if it would be legal in your country that is a judgment call you have to make. it is not a horrible difference, but if you are having hesitations, that should be a sign for you to wait

[ClaraWho]

I would be very wary that she isn't mature enough for the kind of adult romantic relationship. If you're just in it for sex - hell no. Stay away.

With that age difference you wouldn't have a lot in common to talk about, and you may feel that you end up being more like a parent than a boyfriend to her.

Just see how it develops and try to establish a close friendship (involving her parents too) before you escalate the relationship.

~ Clara

[Xandle]

well...if it would be legal in your country that is a judgment call you have to make. it is not a horrible difference, but if you are having hesitations, that should be a sign for you to wait

My hesitations are more that most of the 'getting to know you' has, so far, been via text - we've met in person but haven't known each other that long, so I'm as yet unsure how much I like her. Also, I've never really had a girlfriend, so to be honest I'm a little hesitant about all of it.

I would be very wary that she isn't mature enough for the kind of adult romantic relationship. If you're just in it for sex - hell no. Stay away.

With that age difference you wouldn't have a lot in common to talk about, and you may feel that you end up being more like a parent than a boyfriend to her.

Just see how it develops and try to establish a close friendship (involving her parents too) before you escalate the relationship.

~ Clara

I agree about the sex - that's definitely not the reason I'm interested. Pretty as she is, I'd never go into a relationship for that, least someone with that age difference.
We've been talking a lot on text, and we seem to have a fair bit in common and a decent lot to talk about, plus she seems quite mature. To be honest though, I don't know her that well yet, so I'd have to decide I really like her first. I think you're right - make friends first. I really appreciate your comment.

[Babs]

Like others have said, 13 and 16 is a huge difference because there's a lot of personal growth between those ages. But, say, 19 and 22 would be fine because they'd both be adults. 16 and 19 I think are fine too but I think you need to be more careful at that stage.

[Abhorrence]

I think it is fine but I'm not overly sure what parents would think, legally you are an adult and she is not.

[Laibachd]

I think it´s alright! Go for it! :D

[Uniquemind]

I'd take it really really slow.

I agree with what others have said here.

[Blazefire]

its your choice !

[DoodleSnap]

I'd agree with what those above have said: take it slowly and be wary of knee-jerk reactions. Be honest and open, and see where it goes, but erring on the side of caution is a good idea here.

[Manboy321]

It just seems weird but it should get more normal

[Meganium]

How appropriate an age gap is is entirely dependent on age level. Obviously, be careful with anyone younger than you when you're 18, but honestly I think an age gap of 3-4 (VERY rarely, 5) could be appropriate, if the other person exhibits a certain level of maturity. People who have matured and developed enough to be able to fully grasp a relationship at say, 13, are rare-ish, but it's never impossible. Whoever you encounter, just try to ensure that the are very comfortable with dating at that time, on top of adjusting to other new teen shit.

[Yolodolo]

Kinda weird I'm sure the mom of the girl would hate you

[shamrockgirl02]

She's legal, go for it

[mattsmith48]

you should be good

[everlong]

I don't think that's a bad age difference at all

[NorthSeaGirl]

Here in Germany this age combination is pretty normal. There are always people who are bored and search for some talks, but these people have other problems.

[Tesserax]

My advice is to beware of sexual desires or relationship stuffs until she's 18. There's a reason why it's the age limit in many other countries; the maturity and decision making is hindered until closer to the age of 20, and they only give lenience at 18 to pretty much say "Hey, you're an adult now, make your own decisions and leave the other adults in peace, kthxbye".

Anyway, if it's emotionally based as a relationship, then cool. You could even do it with a 14 year old, though some may be skeptical. But anything below that is a no-no for me; the maturity isn't even beginning to develop properly yet. But even with 14+ you have to beware of people scrutinizing you, because in the end, the age difference will seem suspicious as in the end, pedophiles do exist. But anyway, 19 and 16 is a perfectly fine age gap to me. Hope this helps :)