Older women who seek out sexual relationships with younger men are sometimes called "cougars," but we don't even have a word for men who seek out sexual relationships with younger women.Some people might joke that we call them "men." What does this show us about gender and language?

Question

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The fact that we have a slang term for older women who seek younger men but not for older men who seek younger women shows how language can reinforce sexist ideas and double standards in our culture. The term "cougar" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that this behavior is inappropriate or predatory, whereas there is no similar stigma attached to older men dating younger women. This reflects deeper cultural beliefs about gender and sexuality, and highlights the ways in which language can perpetuate discrimination and inequality.

Older Women Who Seek Out Sexual Relationships with Younger Men