There's other reasons a woman can be attracted to older men. Maybe she likes that they're settled down and more mature. That would be a positive. Maybe she feels insecure about being able to take care of herself since she hasn't developed the habits or discipline to do so, so she's drawn to men that act like they want to take care of her and they are able to because they're older and established. That wouldn't be on you - you did the right thing by not enabling her to stay that way. Just my two cents (and based on things I've observed with women). Lastly, some people in relationships with large age gaps actually stay together and have happy lives. It could be worse! He could be 22, addicted to meth, cheating on her and hitting her... Oh! One more thing, that's kind of catch phrase nowadays - "Daddy issues." I've been guilty of using it, but I didn't really think of the actual father's role. I think I'll make sure not to use it anymore!