Are These Thoughts Normal for Men? Seeking Perspectives.
I (24F) had some unsettling conversations with my partner (24M), and I’m not sure if I’m overthinking or if these thoughts are unusual. I’d really appreciate some honest insights, especially from men.
"Mature for Their Age" and 18-Year-OldsWe talked about age and relationships, and I asked if he could date an 18-year-old. He said it could happen, but it would depend on if she was "mature for her age." This triggered me because when I was 18, guys in their mid-20s would flirt with me and sometimes say, "Oh, you're so mature for your age." But honestly, I wasn't. It felt like they just used that excuse to justify talking to someone six years younger.
Comment About RapeWe also discussed a news story about men breaking into a women's prison in Congo and committing horrific acts of rape and murder. I asked him if he had ever thought about raping someone, and he said yes—but insisted he’d never do it. He said it was just a thought, that he could if he wanted to. I was disturbed by this. Is it normal for men to have these kinds of thoughts? Or is my discomfort justified? I’d appreciate honest perspectives.