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A friendship between an adult (40+) and a child (14-16) who is unrelated. Similar interests include gaming, sci-fi, general geekyness. Interactions include Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, Gaming night (with child's parent participation).
Is it normal for an adult to be friends with someone so much younger?
I don't think it is normal, however, I was actually fortunate enough to have had a similar experience.
I also agree with NotFloydzie
As long as the friendship maintains a respectful barrier then it should be OK. You should also make sure the child's parents are part of this friendship too since they will have the final say in "yes" or "no"
Funnily, I think it's normal. What I find strangest in that scenario is the parent's participation as if he/she were taking that teen to a play-date, while waiting for it to be over. Other than that, I see nothing wrong. There's no rule that states affinity can only happen between same age, ethnicity, orientation, religion, etc. individuals.
I agree with with Floydzie, as long as it's respectable and not inappropriate, than it should be fine. I've had acquaintances who were allot older than me, but not as friends.