What is the 7 2 rule age?

Asked by: Electa Hintz  |  Last update: July 7, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (31 votes)

This rule states that by dividing your own age by two and then adding seven you can find the socially acceptable minimum age of anyone you want to date. So if you're a 24-year-old, you can feel free to be with anyone who is at least 19 (12 + 7) but not someone who is 18.

Is it illegal to date someone 7 years older than you?

There are no laws or rules regarding dating and ages. You can be 12 years old and date someone who's 50 and it's legal in the eyes of the law. What is in question is sex and sexual contact and this is where the law comes in.

What is the unacceptable age gap?

Now there's a general rule that's supposed to answer this question for us. The age-gap equation, of course: half your age, then add seven to work out if someone is too young for you to date; take seven off your age, then double it to work out if someone is too old for you to date.

Can a 20 year old date a 30 year old?

By law, yes. Once you're both over the age of 18 it's a matter of consenting adults agreeing to a relationship or marriage.

How big of an age gap is illegal?

In addition, most state laws criminalize sexual activity only when there is a specified age difference—commonly three or four years—between the minor and his or her partner.

Does "Half your age plus seven rule" actually work? Professional matchmaker's perspective

20 related questions found

What age gap is too high?

Studies have found partners with more than a ten-year gap in age experience social disapproval. But when it comes to our own relationships, both men and women prefer someone their own age, but are open to someone 10-15 years their junior or senior.

What is the 12 date rule?

I have the 12 date rule … which, basically, says to wait 12 dates before having sex ... [Keep in mind] a date can be a phone or video call, or something in-person that's between 20 minutes and three hours. And you could have up to two dates in one day.

Can a 12 year old boy have a girlfriend?

KH: When it comes to whether a child is ready to have a boyfriend or girlfriend, parents should consider their child's maturity rather than a particular age. Typically, it's best for children under 13 not to engage in romantic relationships as they are still developing emotionally and cognitively.

Is a 66 year old woman too old for a 56 year old man?

Are relationships between older women and younger men doomed? Or can they work? Age should not be a barrier to love and companionship. There is no reason why a relationship between an older woman and younger man cannot work long term, provided both partners are committed and willing to put in the work.

What's the worst age difference between a couple?

Couples with an age gap of 1 to 3 years (with the man older than the woman) were the most common and had the greatest levels of satisfaction. Relationship satisfaction decreased slightly for couples with age gaps of 4 to 6 years and continued to decrease for couples with an age gap of 7 or more years.

What is the opposite of a cougar?

Manther. New Word Suggestion. [opposite of cougar] A middle-aged man who seeks sexual or romantic relationships with much younger women.

Why am I attracted to a man 30 years older than me?

There are many reasons you might be interested in an older man. People mature and develop at different rates, and older men—who have inevitably had more time for life experiences—may offer insights, perspectives, or status that you find appealing.

Is it okay for a girl to be older than her boyfriend?

It's pretty common to date someone who's a few years younger or older than you, and often the age difference is no big deal. Sometimes, maturity levels match, even when ages don't.

What is the 7 year dating rule?

According to this rule, a 28-year-old would date no one younger than 21 (half of 28, plus 7) and a 50-year-old would date no one younger than 32 (half of 50, plus 7). Although the provenance of the rule is unclear, it is sometimes said to have originated in France.

Is it weird to date someone 20 years older than you?

A lot of people assume that couples who have a large age gap are more likely to have an 'unsuccessful relationship' (whatever that means) but according to Associate Professor Gery Karantzas, from the School of Psychology at Deakin University, "age doesn't matter."

At what age do boys start liking girls?

Age 10 to 13

Between ages 10 and 13, children start going through puberty. They're exploring changes to their bodies and reactions to people they like, says Cook-McKay. "Sexual attraction and the concept of dating are all being explored around this age."

Is it okay to kiss at 12?

Kiss someone when you feel ready, regardless of how old you are. Around ages 12-15, people often start having their first kiss. Don't feel pressured by other people your age kissing people, and don't rush into kissing someone if you are apprehensive. You'll know intuitively when the time feels right.

What to do if your 12 year old daughter has a boyfriend?

Let her know that you see she is growing up, how proud you are of her and that you are always available to talk about personal, friendship and relationship matters whenever she wants. Talk about healthy relationships, respect, consent and body boundaries as well as sex, intimacy and keeping herself safe.

What is the 222 rule date?

The rule is to go on a date with your partner every 2 weeks. Go on a weekend trip with your partner every 2 months. Go on a week-long trip with your partner every 2 years.

What is the 3 6 9 dating rule?

To break it down to you, it is about the first three months, a phase when you are getting to know each other, the second set of three months when you are building a deeper connection, and the last set of three months when you should have a clear idea of whether the relationship has long-term potential.

What is the 24 hour rule in dating?

The 24 Hour Rule is a simple and effective method for saving relationships, particularly when you are tempted to act out of high emotion: When emotion is high, don't let words fly. Stop! Give it 24 Hours before you act.

Who is called a minor?

India. In all 28 states and 8 union territories, a minor is referred to as someone under the age of 18. In rare cases minors aged 16 or 17 who are charged with extremely heinous crimes could sometimes be treated as an adult.

What states have a Romeo and Juliet law?

California is one of 20 states with no Romeo and Juliet law. The absence of a Romeo and Juliet law in California puts young people at risk of significant legal consequences if they engage in sexual activities. Prosecution of teenagers having sexual intercourse is rarely prosecuted.

What was the age of consent in America 100 years ago?

What was the age of consent 100 years ago in the U.S.A., and why did the age of consent change? “In 1880, the age of consent was set at 10 or 12 in most states, with the exception of Delaware where it was 7….. By 1920 ages of consent generally rose to 16–18 and small adjustments to these laws occurred after 1920.”