A 2023 nationally representative survey of 1,000 American adults conducted by YouGov inquired about people’s attitudes toward various forms of non-monogamy and found that most adults tend to view it negatively no matter what form it takes, from open relationships to swinging to polyamory. Why is consensual non-monogamy viewed in such a negative light? In part, it’s because people hold a lot of misconceptions about it. So let’s take a look at fact versus fiction when it comes to consensually non-monogamous relationships.
For today’s show, I am joined 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:
- What do we know about who engages in consensual non-monogamy?
- What are the main reasons people pursue consensual non-monogamy?
- Are conflict and jealousy inevitable in consensual non-monogamous relationships?
- How do rates of STIs compare between monogamous and consensually non-monogamous persons?
- What does research say about parenting skills and families among consensually non-monogamous persons?
Find 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.
Support sex science by becoming a friend of the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University. Visit kinseyinstitute.org to make a donation to support ongoing research projects on critical topics. You can also show your support by following the Kinsey Institute on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
***
Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.
Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!
Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.
