Experts have revealed the ideal age gap if you want a relationship to go the distance, and it might not be what you think.
Research has showed that the age difference between you and your partner can actually determine how long your relationship will last.
Dating someone much older or much younger always raises a few eyebrows but for some people, going outside of their age group has found them the perfect partner.
Advert
While there are definitely exceptions, research has shown that couples with large age gaps are much more likely to break up than those who are closer in age.
A study conducted by Emory University in Atlanta revealed the bigger the difference in age the bigger the chance of separation is.
Having analysed 3,000 people, researchers concluded that couples with a five-year age gap are 18 percent more likely to split up in contrast to those who are the same age.
Couples with a 10-year age gap are 39 per cent more likely to separate and the figure rose to 95 percent for those with a 20-year age gap.
Advert
But where is the sweet spot?
Surprisingly, researchers found that the ideal age gap for a relationship is just one year as there is a much smaller chance of splitting up at just three percent.
Hugo Mialon, one of the researchers involved in the study, said: “It could just be that the types of couples with those characteristics are the types of couples who are, on average, more likely to divorce for other reasons."
Advert
Age gap isn't the only factor that impact a relationship's longevity and a sex expert recently revealed her top tip for a long, healthy relationship - adopting a 'monogamish' approach.
The movement encourages people to explore and have sexual experiences with people other than their partner, but to not form emotional connections outside of their couple.
Doctor Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, who is part of the Celebs Go Dating team alongside Paul Brunson and Anna Williamson, says being monogamish could be the answer to help end the rising divorce rate.
Advert
She also predicted that there will be a surge in couples trying the new trend and in 10 years it could become the norm for many in relationships.
However, couples contemplating whether to try out being monogamish should do some thorough research first and take it 'slowly' to ensure they are 'less scared'.
Dr Tara said the topic should be talked about 'sensitively' and when both parties are ready, they should proceed 'with caution'.
Topics: Sex and Relationships