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January 2010
Cougars: An emerging phenomenon
There is an emerging phenomenon, which in recent years has challenged our accepted social norms and family values. Many feel that once a woman reaches a certain age, that she is over the hill. There is a belief prevalent within our society that once a woman becomes divorced and there are children, her primary job is raising her children and fading into the paint work. However, with many women divorcing in their 40s, there is an emerging class of women embracing the notion of being single and looking for love with a younger man.
An ‘urban cougar’ is a vibrant and passionate woman who is ready to compete with women who are in their 20s, to snare a younger man. We’ve all seen it in the gossip magazine, one of the most notable examples is Demi Moore, who bucked the social trend and rather than fading into the woodwork, found love with a much younger Ashton Kutcher.
Characteristics of a cougar:
- Divorced woman over the age of 40
- Hunting younger men for relationships
- Sophisticated, attractive and sensually aware woman
- Generally women who are successful and have control of their life.
- Financially independent women
There are those who feel that women of this age should be raising their children and focusing on their home, however women have made it quite clear that they will not be subjugated back to the kitchen and are now combining caring for their children with finding love. Instead this phenomenon will only grow, women are taking what they want, and they’re not apologising for it.
The problem with this is that many have a public perception that whilst it is okay for an older man to date and marry a younger woman, that it is taboo for women to do the same. But why should it be any different for women to take control of their lives, after all, love can be found in the most unexpected of places.
Quote of the Month
This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. Take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the power to control your own life. No one else can do it for you. Take the power to make your life happy.
Susan Polis Schutz