Winton Eliott
Love is a language all its own, and that’s why every relationship is unique. Love has the power to mend relationships, but it doesn’t work every time. That’s why polyamory has become an increasingly common topic of discussion.
Approximately 17 million individuals in the United States are polyamorous, according to a recent study.
However, those numbers are expected to rise as a 2016 YouGov poll revealed that only half of millennials (those under 30 at the time) want a “completely monogamous” relationship.
What is a polyamorous relationship?
A polyamorous relationship is a type of consensual non-monogamous relationship that includes multiple partners.
The polyamorous lifestyle is based on the philosophy that an individual can have more than one romantic or sexual partner at the same time.
Polyamory is often described as “consensual, ethical, and responsible non-monogamy.”
It is important to note that polyamorous relationships are not the same as cheating; all parties involved are aware of and consent to the arrangement.
There are many different types of polyamorous relationships, ranging from those who only have occasional “threesomes” to those who maintain multiple long-term committed relationships.
While polyamory may not be for everyone, it can work well for those who are honest, communicative, and open-minded.
Read also: Do Breaks in Relationships Work
What are the benefits And Challenges of polyamory?
Benefits
There are many benefits to polyamory, such as:
- Allows you to explore different types of relationships
- Can lead to greater communication and intimacy within the relationship
- Can provide a sense of freedom and flexibility
- Can help you to become more comfortable with yourself and your relationship
- Can allow you to learn more about yourself and your partner(s)
Challenges
While there are many benefits to polyamory, there are also some challenges that come along with it. These challenges can include:
- Jealousy among partners
- Disagreements over time commitment
- Negotiating different levels of intimacy
- Managing different schedules
- Dealing with judgment from others
If you’re considering entering into a polyamorous relationship, it’s important to be aware of both the challenges and benefits.
Read also: How Long Can A Friends With Benefits Relationship Last
What Are the different types of polyamorous relationships?
The most common type of polyamorous relationship is a triad, which is composed of three people who are all in a committed relationship with each other.
However, there are many other types of polyamorous relationships, such as:
Quadruple (four people)
Polyamorous quadruple relationships involve four individuals who are committed to each other and are also romantically and/or sexually involved with other people outside of the relationship.
Quadruple relationships can be both physically and emotionally intimate. Although quadruple relationships are not as common as triads, they can be just as fulfilling and satisfying.
Nesting Partner (two people)
A nesting partner is a person who is in a committed relationship with someone else but also has an agreement with their partner that they are free to date and/or have sex with other people.
Nesting partners typically live together and share finances, but each person is still free to pursue other relationships.
Polyfidelity (three or more people)
Polyfidelity is a type of polyamorous relationship in which three or more people are committed to each other and are not romantically or sexually involved with anyone outside of the relationship.
Polyfidelitous relationships are often based on trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Swinging (couple)
Swinging is a type of non-monogamous relationship in which a committed couple engages in sexual activities with other people outside of the relationship.
Swingers often meet other couples through social gatherings or online communities and engage in sexual activity together.
Vee Relationship (three people)
A vee relationship is a type of polyamorous relationship in which three people are involved.
Two people in the relationship ( typically a husband and wife) are committed to each other, but both are also romantically and/or sexually involved with the third person.
The third person is not romantically or sexually involved with either of the other two people.
Unicorn (single person)
A unicorn is a single person who is involved in a polyamorous relationship with a couple. The couple is often referred to as the “unicorn hunters,” and the single person is typically seen as a prize or trophy.
Unicorns are often expected to be sexually available to both members of the couple and are sometimes expected to live with the couple.
Read also: Transference vs Countertransference
The bottom line
While the number of people involved in polyamorous relationships is small compared to the overall population, this type of relationship structure is gaining popularity.
Polyamorous relationships can take many different forms, but they all involve multiple people who are romantically or sexually involved with each other.
Some people in polyamorous relationships choose to have one primary partner, while others have multiple partners of equal importance.
There are also many different ways to structure polyamorous relationships, such as through hierarchical or non-hierarchical arrangements.
Ultimately, the most important thing is that all members of the relationship feel comfortable and respected. While polyamorous relationships are not for everyone, they can be a rewarding experience for those who are open to them.
