News Desk
Age gaps have long been a dating taboo that often divides people’s perceptions. While most of us have trouble dealing with our age, this problem often applies to dating situations as well. What is an appropriate age gap? How young is too young, or how old is too old? Is it only for the very rich, famous and fashionable?
According to a recent study by Bumble, Indian singles are embracing love as it manifests itself in multiple ways and approaching dating with a more free and equal mindset as social norms change.
A New Dating Trend: The ‘General-blend Romance’
How people approach age ‘standards’ in relationships is changing. A new study by Bumble shows that 81 percent of Indians surveyed say age is just a number and does not determine the success of a relationship.
We are also looking at old, outdated beliefs about gender and power dynamics in relationships as 84 percent of Indians surveyed believe that age gap relationships are now more accepted than ever. in fact:
It’s not just in movies: 76 percent of Indians surveyed say age-gap relationships are no longer a norm (in movies, celebrity relationships).
Time Matters Less: 74 percent of Indians surveyed say age gap relationships are less important as partners get older
In India, the pressure to date as you get older still persists and can be restrictive as 2 in 5 (39 percent) surveyed admit that dating as you get older as a woman becomes more difficult. This is true for more millennial women (44 percent) than Gen Z (35 percent). Additionally, 33 percent of Indians surveyed say fear of judgment from family and friends makes it difficult for them to openly think about age-gap relationships.
Devida Samadar, India Communications Director, Bumble shares, “Our thoughts and ideas about age gap relationships are rooted in patriarchal, archaic, traditional societal norms. Unfortunately, couples with large age gaps, especially when it comes to There is a tendency to think about potential power imbalances instead of assuming that people are happily together, and the relationship is often transactional. There is a tendency to see things as. It is very important that we understand that a healthy relationship is much more than just age. Instead of worrying about ‘what people will say’ we choose what is right for us; our happiness. Choose and what is best for us in the relationship.”
Also read: Harmful impact of office romance on workplace culture, research reveals
To take the pressure off, Shahzeen Shivdasani, Bumble’s relationship expert, answers some of the concerns when it comes to age gap relationships:
Power balance is out of whack
An age-gap relationship is likely accompanied by a wealth gap. It’s important to set limits on finances early on and claim what you both need to feel empowered. Communicate openly about joint finances, money management, budgeting and even your lifestyle to understand what works best for both of you!
Our future goals and priorities may change over time
Both of you may have pressing questions about the future and perhaps different priorities in life. Discuss this early in the relationship to find a balanced approach that works for both of you.
Can intimacy be a big issue?
If your emotional and physical intimacy needs differ, communicate openly, listen without judgment and find a middle ground. Find interests that you both enjoy, make plans and, most importantly, stick to them.
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