Scientists have researched what age difference between a man and a woman is considered "normal"

Relationships with a significant age difference have always been a hot topic, and although modern society has accepted them, some still harbor prejudices about them. The idea of an "ideal relationship" is changing, requiring understanding and respect.

The ideal age difference for starting a family may vary by gender, according to psychologytoday.com. Men tend to choose women in the prime of their childbearing years, which is explained by the evolutionary function of procreation. On the other hand, women are looking for partners who are willing and able to invest in them and their potential offspring.

Read also: What to do when you feel overworked or stressed: useful tips that will help

Some stereotypes suggest that younger women have greater reproductive fitness, while older men have more resources to invest in family and children. Studies also show that, on average, men prefer women who are about 2.5 years younger, and women prefer men who are 3.5 years older.

Regarding the acceptance of age differences, men appear to be more open to relationships with both younger and older partners. Studies indicate that men can accept relationships with women 10 years younger and 4.5 years older. For women, the "acceptable" difference is eight years younger and five years older.

However, these boundaries may change with age. Older men may accept even younger women, but the acceptable age gap relative to the oldest partner they would consider may not depend on their age. For women, the situation is reversed - they may accept younger men, but the oldest acceptable partner decreases with age.

Even if a relationship has a significant age gap, it can be happy under the right conditions. Research suggests that men and women in relationships with younger partners are happier. However, this happiness may be less stable over time.

In general, the age difference in a relationship can lead to various scenarios. It is important to keep in mind that any type of relationship can be successful under the right conditions and with understanding and respect for each other.

As a reminder, we have already written about how to make difficult decisions.

If you want to get the latest news about the war and events in Ukraine, subscribe to our Telegram channel!