There are countless reasons why a younger man might date an older woman from lust to love and many in between. Here's a list of seven that are the most probable from this dating coach's perspective.

1) For Lust

Maybe you're just hot and he wants you. Not such a bad thing when you think about it. After all, nature has played a mean trick on humans with women reaching their sexual peak later in life and men reaching it earlier. So this is a way to balance things out! Not only that, but if a younger man finds you attractive, whether or not you go for it, his attention is flattering. Allow your self-esteem to rise as you feel like the attractive, alluring woman that you really are. Enjoy it!

2) For Fun

Cyndi Lauper says "Girls just want to have fun." so go ahead and have some fun with that younger man who could be looking for the very same thing. Sometimes life brings you an opportunity just for the sake of a good time. Nothing wrong with that either. That's what the movie "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" was all about. A fling with a young man brought Stella back to the joys of life.

3) To Escape the Ticking Bio Clock

Younger women in their 30's are often worried about their biological clocks ticking away and with good reason. If you want to have children, time does run out at some point. But with an older woman, she is past thinking "family" or already has her family and so the pressure on that young man is off. With an older woman, he can actually skirt the whole family thing and just enjoy. And so can you.

4) For Status

Older women are more accomplished. Today many women have power jobs and make a boatload of ka-ching. And so, just like younger women who date older men, younger men are looking for the flip side of the traditional equation. And let's face it, many of these "cougar-types" are looking for what older men have known for years. Dating younger will help keep you young and bring back the glow of youth. Sounds good to me!

Men have traditionally sought the company of younger women, also known as "arm candy." Now it's your turn. If you want some candy, go get some.

5) For Oedipus

The term for this classic psychological motivation was coined by our friend Dr. Sigmund Freud. The Oedipus complex is actually based on Greek mythology and a tragic play by Socrates. The briefest explanation - when a young seeks the love of his mother – but from another woman. Maybe he looks up to you. Maybe he appreciates your ability to nurture and the wisdom that only time can bring. Not so terrible really. It's actually flattering to have someone look up to you. One of the best ways to learn life's lessons is through a mentor and as you play the expert, you can enjoy the companionship of a younger man.

6) For Experience

Let's say you are a younger man who hasn't had a lot of women. But you would like the short course and a teacher could really help. Bingo! Some younger men date older women simply to gain experience. What a service you are doing for the younger women who he'll come in contact in his lifetime. Many people enjoy the teacher/student relationship. Just keep it out of the real classroom and you'll be all set for a eye-opening and inspiring situation. Plus, this type of relationship gives you a chance to be in charge which for some is really a kick. Why not show someone younger the ropes of romantic relationship and have fun through all the learning.

7) For Love

Last, but not least, the guy might be dating you for LOVE. Some younger men can't help who they fall for. He saw you, was struck by your beauty and charm, and just fell head over heels. It happens. Really it does. Ask Aston Kutcher and Demi Moore, Katie Couric and Brooke Perlin, and so many others. It's all the rage in Hollywood and for good reason. Because this May-December romance thing which was previously frowned upon and poo-pooed, has now become acceptable. Chemistry is something that cannot easily be explained. In addition, I say, let's here it for those younger men who have the good sense to fall for an older woman! You have excellent taste.

Stop fretting about what this younger guy sees in you, or what others think, and enjoy the attention. You deserve every flattering, delicious moment so sit back and count your blessings.

©2008

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