There's no single age at which crushes begin or end. The experience of having a crush can start surprisingly early.
The Start of Crushes:
- Research suggests that children can experience crushes as early as preschool (around age 4). [CNN, 2022] Several online forums and parenting sites corroborate this, with anecdotes of children as young as four expressing interest in particular peers. [Reddit, 2019]
- Between ages 6 and 9, children often begin to exhibit more pronounced behaviors associated with crushes, such as wanting to spend significant time with a specific person. [Parents.com]
- The onset of puberty (around ages 11-16) often intensifies these feelings, as hormones play a significant role in emotional development. [Quora, 2018]
Crushing Throughout Life:
It's important to understand that crushes aren't limited to childhood or adolescence. The ability to develop crushes continues throughout adulthood. [Quora, 2021] Having a crush, regardless of age, is a normal part of the human experience. [NextTribe, 2021] These feelings, even in adulthood, can be positive and fulfilling.
Understanding Crushes:
A crush is a distinct type of relationship, different from friendship or romantic relationships. [CNN, 2022] It often involves strong feelings of admiration and attraction toward another person, which may or may not be reciprocated. The intensity and expression of crushes can vary depending on age and individual development.
