Before you date an older guy
Considerations before dating someone
who is older than you are

Maybe he is only a year or two older; maybe he is four or five years older. The following are ten things to think about when dating an older guy:

1. Is it normal to date older guys?
Why not go for the older, more mature guy? Just remember this…with age comes experience. That older guy that you have your sights set on might want you to do things that you are not ready for or just don’t want to do.

2. Will it be more difficult to say “no” to sex?
If the guy is older, then he may be more experienced in dating and relationships. Maybe he has even had sex before. Ask yourself if he expects you to take the relationship a little further physically. Just because he is ready to go further or have sex doesn’t mean that you have to be ready for that as well!

3. Are you placing yourself at a greater risk for getting an STD?
Older guys with more experience in dating, and even guys who have had sex before, are more likely to be exposed to Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or HIV (the virus which leads to AIDS). If you become sexually active, you are putting yourself at risk for STDs such as Herpes, Chlamydia, HPV, or even HIV.

4. Is he old enough to drive, drink, or live on his own?
If you cannot drive but you are dating someone who is, how will you get home if you have to end the date early? If that person is old enough to drink alcohol, will he expect you to do the same?

Some older guys may live alone. If either of you have been drinking, it will be harder to set your limits, especially around the areas of sexual activity.

5. Do you share friends?
Are your friends also his friends? Chances are that if he is older, you both have different sets of friends. Take into account that it is certainly possible to drift away from your friends while hanging out with his.

6. Does he treat you like an equal?
Some men date younger women so that they can feel in control or powerful. Does he tell you how to dress or how to act? Do you ever feel afraid of him? Do you find yourself trying to please him, even if what your are doing doesn’t feel right?

7. What about the Law?
Is the guy older three or more years than you are? If the answer is yes, and you are a minor under the age of 18, then sexual intercourse qualifies as statutory rape and he can be prosecuted under the law.

8. Does he seem like the answer to your problems?
It may seem as though he is a breath of fresh air amongst all of your struggles. Maybe you feel like an older guy will take you away from your problems. Unfortunately, there are other risk factors involved when dating an older guy. WHAT ARE THEY????

9. He says he will take care of you if you become pregnant, but is that really true?
One out of 10 girls will become pregnant each year, and men who are 20 years old or older father most babies born to teen moms. He may say that he will stick around, but can you really know that for sure?

10. Is it worth the risk?
Sure, it is normal to admire an older guy, but is dating him what’s best for you? If you’re not sure about what to do in this situation, talk with a trusted adult. Make sure to make the best decision for you!!