Dear Jenny: I am the mother of a 29-year-old son. He is well-educated, athletic, good-looking, and has a good job and active social life. My concern is that he seems to have anxiety when it comes to dating. He's never had a long-term relationship and will go on a date here and there, but nothing more. He doesn't seem interested in the dating websites. I try not to say anything, because I don't want to cause stress in our relationship. My husband says that we should let it play out, and my son will settle down when he is ready.

I think that my husband and I have provided good role models as far as relationships go, but I can't help but wonder what we could have done wrong to make him feel the way he does. I need to know what I can do to encourage him, or if I need to stay silent. I have a brother who is 46 and never settled down, and I guess I worry that my son will do the same. Thanks for any advice! — K, in Illinois

Jenny says: I understand you're worried about your son, because as parents, we want only the best for our children. However, in this day and age, 29 years old and single really isn't reason to be overly concerned. In fact, 29 is the average age for a man's first marriage. He still has plenty of time to meet someone special and settle down. Single life in the city is so much fun! He may just enjoy going out with his friends and not being committed to one person.

There are plenty of reasons why men his age aren't rushing into marriage. Many want to be financially stable before they marry. Some are romantics at heart and are waiting for their soul mates. Others just don't feel the pressure — after all, they don't have to worry about their biological clocks. Why wouldn't they want to enjoy single life as long as possible, especially when they have their own spaces and routines? So instead of feeling worried, accept him for who he is — an athletic, good-looking guy who simply hasn't found the right girl yet. I agree with your husband: Your son will settle down when he is ready.

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