Is there a double standard for women dating younger men, like 6+ years?

I recently ran into this guy I used to know from school. I always thought he was cute and interesting, but obviously nothing happened between us. Then I saw him at a restaurant I went to not too long ago, however I found out how old he really is. I was somewhat disappointed because six years seems a bit much. I have definitely dated younger just not that young. I am 28 going on 29 and he may just have turned 23. What do you think?

#1 - is he over 21? check the license (no kidding)

#2 - how is his emotional intelligence? Have you seen him in a variety of circumstance? Hopefully some where formal behavior has been relaxed.

#3 - Consider backing off rapidly:absolutely if he fails #1, and with respect if #2 is at all "iffy".

Why? because the older person, with the expected broader experience/greater perception, should be protective of those younger. Even if they are cute, even if they are interesting and no matter how one might want to get that "groove" back (although it doesn't apply to your age group, I'm referring to that movie with Stella in the title)..

In my opinion, it's not just a matter of years. It is cultural relations, social skills, concrete individual responsibility, personal integrity, emotional maturity, mutuality, life stage, self-actualization and, frankly... (big sigh): depth. I'm not meaning to be rude, but it isn't much fun to truly care about somebody and suddenly realize there's not much "there," there.

I've met peers of my own age that are exhaustively immature and men as much as 20 years my junior, even 30 (well, one) who are wonderfully worldly and who I'd love to fall under their spell's. So you see, I would rapidly agreed with any one who would argue maturity really isn't a number. But I equally believe every year of life makes a difference in how one thinks.

Twenty three can be "the old man", a trained NCO commanding a significant number of troops (I know, I've met them). 23 can be a grown man of spectacular integrity, adventure, accomplishment, potential (etc.) and yet, and yet, and yet, (might) still not be right for you. In fact, despite social mores, rude people's double-standard presumptive of 'cougar' (actually you are way too young for that title), or simply somebody kidding around and giving you a hard time, only you are going to know (frankly) whether you're using him (it is not kind to break one's toys); or whether you (and also he) have honorable intentions, whether your own are properly placed for your best interest and for his, or - amazingly - whether you just met your very best friend.

An old broad's advice?

Respect yourself, respect him, tread lightly.

Personally, I don't go for the younger type. I just prefer guys my own age or slightly older(5 years or more)! I find that most younger men are immature and disrespectful! I think there is somewhat of a double standard with the guys as a younger woman is quite capable of treating the older man she's dating with respect(only speaking for the ones who are not gold diggers, trashy girls or cheaters)! A younger man will date the older woman so that his friends will think he's more experienced in the bedroom arena! Sometimes they try to make her feel "old" on purpose and see it as some kind of game! A younger woman will date for love and because some older men treat them better! There's nothing wrong with dating someone 6 years younger(as long as he's not a teenager)! Just make sure he's mature enough to give you the respect you deserve!

Well at least is not 16 and 22.

He is an adult now, both in their 20s...do not overwhelm yourself and just have fun, maybe you can find love.