The dating culture in South Africa is about as unique and diverse as the people who call this country home. With everything from blessers to Ben 10s, many relationships have significant age gaps. 

But, what does the research say is the ideal gap between people to have a successful and long-lasting partnership? According to a study published in the Journal of Population Economics, the closer in age a couple is, the more likely they are to go the distance. 

This makes sense. Reasons for this include being in the same stage of life, sharing mutual interests and having common values associated with the time they grew up in. Being on the same page about many things leads to more satisfaction. It doesn’t, however, mean that relationships with a bigger gap are doomed to fail. Some benefits of dating someone older or younger than you are:

1. With age comes maturity

When people are older, they are more inclined to want to settle down and have had enough of playing the field. This can make older people good partners as they are more stable. 

2. Been there, done that

With age also comes wisdom. Having a partner who is older than you and has more life experience can be educational, and you will get new perspectives on everything from finances to family.

3. Exposure to a new culture

When you are with someone who comes from a different generation, you will get exposed to new things, like movies, TV shows and books, and you can share these with each other.

4. You’ll grow as a person

If the person you love is older (or younger) than you, you will be forced to take on board different approaches to life, as will they. This will bring about personal growth for both of you.