So I fully believe that the reason that the reason that perceived peak attractiveness is such a different age for men and women is because of predatory intentions. Meaningful and enthusiastic consent is hard to give when someone has that much more agency than you, and I think this is the whole plot.

I think I have a theory, they're assuming other people are just as incapable of empathy or sympathy as they are, therefore the only reason in their mind that anyone would have an issue with it is jealousy.

Add into that the insecure need to make other people feel bad, and they think by loudly proclaiming it for all to hear, assuming that you will feel bad upon hearing their opinion.

So long story short: they're a piece of shit and their opinions should be ignored by all.

Half your age plus seven, wasn’t it? Assuming both partners are over the age of consent.

The dudes in this thread really managed to remind me how gross it felt when men double my age tried to view me as a sexual object before sexual maturity. At 18, a 22 year old was an old man to me. A 35 year old was older than my fucking father. I didn’t even mature early or wear actual bras until I was legal, but that never stopped the discomfort. Ew guys, do better. You’re not fucking Leo, Leo is fucking creepy too.