Older men dating much younger women is stale news; even staler news is their establishing relationships with schoolgirls. But in these days of economic recession and increased taxes, some men are having a different outlook on these kinds of relationships.

In many cases, these men, some of whom are quite prominent in society, are married or are in committed relationships. However, for varied reasons, they prey on the 'weaker' and younger ones. This though comes at a cost for sure and since the recession is hitting the pockets, some are now cutting back on the unnecessary spending.

Corporate types

Thirty-year-old Mark Anthonylikes the more independent, corporate-type girls but loves the free spirit of the schoolgirls. "The schoolgirls are not so demanding, it's like they live on the edge and they are understanding with certain things. If you say you can't do certain things at a certain time, they are not going to ask a bag of questions." He, however, noted that while he loves their spirit, the pocket is more important and saving well-needed money in these days is more important. "They are always expecting something, whether it's lunch money or shopping money. They are not earning so other than what their parents can afford, I have to fill the gap, but if I have any problems, we are in trouble because they are not in a position to help me."

Anthony noted that he doesn't date girls below age 16, however, he is familiar with such cases. "Some men like the thrill given by the girls.

Aim to please

This has been so for a long time and it is not going to stop. It may be decreasing now because money not running so much, but the young girls aim to please and men love that. There is nothing more to the relationship most of the time."

Relationships with these young girls normally come with understood conditions and responsibilities. These are especially for the women who are enrolled in tertiary institutions, who have more financial needs. Nineteen-year-old Tanisha McFarlane, who is in her first year at one of the island's universities, said it is her 45-year-old boyfriend who takes responsibility for her tuition and boarding expenses. "He is my main help and while I know he has other obligations and a wife, I have to stay focused. We have fun together and all, but there are limitations and boundaries that he sets."

Money was no problem for McFarlane but of late she has cut back on her spending, having recognised certain signs. "I am not saying he will be going anywhere but apparently he is not doing so well and he has cut back on my allowance. So you know he can just decide to get rid of liabilities and other unnecessary expenses."

Schoolgirls may be there for satisfaction but in these times men are thinking twice about the cost which is associated with these relationships. It is the woman who can offer stability and balance to a relationship who seems to be 'in' now; it's crunch time.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com