Gather round kids while I explain this manipulation tactic that men perpetually try to use and why it’s bullshit.
If someone is openly showing interest in you by making disparaging or disappointed comments about your age, they’re trying to put you on the defensive. This guy wants me to try to quell his discomfort, to bring up that I’m only a month shy of 20, etc. – he wants me to try to prove myself to him, that I’m mature and adult enough for a man like him.
His goal is to establish a power imbalance right off the bat. If we were to date, I would constantly be on the defensive, constantly striving to be an equal, constantly trying to prove my “adult” credentials. Anything he says or does or wants from this point on that I object to would just be seen as a strike against my age, proof that he was right and that I’m not mature enough for him. This is how SO MANY men pressure younger individuals (primarily women and girls) into situations and relationships they aren’t comfortable with. If he truly thought I was too young for him, he wouldn’t have messaged me. This is a very calculated move, and it’s fucking gross.
Adult relationships with age gaps are completely fine, but only if all parties view each other as equals. If someone is trying to set you up in a way that ensures that’s never a possibility, run far away.
READ THIS SERIOUSLY READ THIS ^^^^^^^^^^^^
This this this.
Reblogged for the commentary.
This is really important because I think that educating about power imbalances and how to spot that manipulation is a lot better than saying “young people don’t date older people”. I had people use this kind of tactic on me when I was 18/19 as well and it is really damaging.
Females in Dhaka are guarded by teenage students after several girls were raped by officials of the Bangladeshi government for protesting against dangerous roads.
THIS! This is how change is made. Us women can only do so much, and have done alot, but real change with violence against women starts with the men and their attitude towards women. This is a perfect example. It’s a huge step in the right direction. ✊
Why is this not in the news.
This is not in the news because the Bangladesh govt is closely monitoring any type of social media and attacking those that make posts. This includes all forms of news as well.
The government is also trying to get permission to filter Facebook feeds
I understand. I think that it is best to seek God in everything that you do and God will guide you and even give you the words to say! You can speak to your non Christian friends what God wants them to know. You are a Child of God. God can speak to others through you!
Philippians 4:6
“6 Do not be anxious about anything,but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Luke 12:11-12
“When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”
I also want to mention that I think that it’s great that you want to be an ambassador of God amongst your friends!
AngelMihe 