When I was 17 I 'dated' a 27 year old. I used to be the same way then I came to a realization: if a guy that much older than me can have so much in common with me, then that probably indicates a problem in their maturity level. When you're that young, even a few years can make a huge difference. Think about yourself? Your personality and views as a 16 year old compared to as a 19 year old are probably very different. Not to mention just the generation gap.

When you get older its not such a big deal because you figure that both of you have gotten over all the stupid crap young people do in relationships but when you're still young I don't think it's a very good idea.

That's not to say it's not normal though. I agree that it probably has to do with looking for a father figure. I have always dated guys at least a few years older than me, typically about 5-6 years older than me (at least) and I really didn't have a father figure growing up. I had a father, but he was more of a pal than a dad. The kind that buys you and your friends liquor at 16 years old and didn't care that I started smoking at 14. So I was constantly seeking out guys that would give me that 'discipline' and kind of control me I guess.

I ended up cutting off ties with my dad for a while to do some 'soul searching' and once I learned to separate my life from his and learned that I can't control that part of my life (my father's life) it became a lot easier to 'act my own age' and be more comfortable with myself and not seek the approval of older men.