Episode 181: Attachment Styles and Consensual Non-Monogamy

Nationally representative surveys of North American adults have found that about 1 in 5 people say they’ve been in a sexually open relationship at some point, with an even larger number expressing interest in this relationship style. So what makes people more vs. less interested in consensual non-monogamy (CNM)? In today’s show, we’re going to look at how different attachment styles are related to CNM interest and experience. We’re also going to explore the roots of the stigma against sexually open relationships, as well as how this stigma affects CNM partners.

I am joined once again by Dr. Amy Moors, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Chapman University. Her research focuses on sexuality, consensually non-monogamous relationships, and LGBTQ+ issues. Amy has published more than 55 journal articles and book chapters, and has received several awards for her pioneering research on polyamory.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include:

• How is avoidant attachment related to consensual non-monogamy? What about anxious attachment?
• How is the structure of polyamory (i.e., hierarchical vs. non-hierarchical) related to attachment style?
• Why do so many people seem so convinced that consensual non-monogamy just can’t work?
• How can polyamorous individuals identify healthcare providers who are affirming?
• How are attitudes toward polyamory and CNM more broadly changing?

Check out more about Amy and the ONWARD Lab on her website, and be sure to follow Amy on Twitter @ACMoors.

Thank you to our sponsors!

Researchers at Ball State University are currently recruiting participants for a study examining the experiences of individuals in at least one polyamorous relationship. If you are (1) age 18 years or older, (2) currently identify as polyamorous, and (3) are part of at least one consensual polyamorous relationship, visit https://bsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3k3QXZnrXX3rCCy to participate. The survey should take no longer than 45 minutes and you will have an equal opportunity to receive one of forty (40) $25 Tango gift cards for your voluntary participation. 

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Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.