Age is no more than a number. This is one of the oldest clichés and for some it may prove to be true. Historically, it has never been an issue for older men and younger women in a relationship. In fact, it is the norm in some societies.
On the other hand, it has always been tabooed for an older woman and a younger man to form a relationship. However in contemporary society, despite it still being tabooed in some quarters, nonetheless these relationships are not uncommon. But, if the ‘big woman’ involved with the younger man is in a ‘respectable career’, then the relationship will not be advertised for public viewing because of the stigma attached to their union by some persons in society.
Now, I am saying that it is definitely a double standard that an older
man/younger woman relationship is acceptable but not the reverse; without the older women being stereotyped and mocked. In some instances, even the poor young man being mocked by his peers, and stereotyped as a ‘gold digger’. Who will eventually leave the lady for a younger woman when he gets what he wants.
I think it is time for ‘cougars’ who are involved in ‘successful’ relationships with younger men to get out of hiding. They must publicly display their relationship so as to try and remove some of the stigmas attached to their relationships. The cliché ‘age is just a number’ should not be subjective. Take a look at Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore
Nyasha Watson
