Ask AI: How much of an age gap is too much?

The "right" age gap depends on individual preferences, cultural norms, legal age of consent, and personal maturity levels. However, in general, a common rule when it comes to dating is the “half your age plus seven” rule. This means someone who is 20 years old should be dating someone who is at least 17 years old. If they were 40, the youngest they should ideally date is 27. Still, it's important to remember that every relationship is unique. The most important thing is that both parties are mature, consenting adults who respect and care for each other, regardless of age difference. It's also important to note that large age gaps can sometimes accompany power imbalances in a relationship, which should be avoided for a healthy connection to thrive. If there's a significant age gap and you're unsure, it could be helpful to seek advice from trusted friends, family, or a professional counselor.