Home » Misc » Ethically non monogamous relationship

Ethically non monogamous relationship


All About Ethical Non-Monogamy

Ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationships are gaining popularity. But what exactly are they and how do you practice them?

Ethical non-monogamy, also known as consensual non-monogamy, is a relationship style that’s been in the spotlight lately. There are many ways to practice ethical nonmonogamy. For some, that might look like polyamory, open relationships, or casual dating.

Ethical non-monogamy involves sexual and/or romantic relationships between multiple people. The “ethical” distinguishes it from infidelity or coerced relationships. Ethical non-monogamy emphasizes that everybody’s informed consent is needed. In other words, all partners know about one another and consent to it.

Anybody who wants to practice ethical non-monogamy can do so. Still, before you take the plunge, it’s a good idea to learn about it. There’s a lot of terminologies that you might not be aware of, and there are so many things to consider before committing to this relationship style.

Have you ever fallen in love with multiple people at the same time? Or have you ever felt attracted to another person while you were in a relationship?

Many of us have. In that situation, we might feel as if we’re doing something wrong. Many people think that this means they have a disorder, or that they’re bound to be unfaithful to their partners.

Although this experience may feel confusing, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. Ethical non-monogamy leans into our ability to be attracted to multiple people at once. It’s about embracing that and navigating it in a respectful, healthy way.

It is possible to have a healthy relationship that is not monogamous. One study found similar levels of relationship satisfaction between monogamous people and ethically nonmonogamous people.

Infidelity, or what many experts refer to as “breaking a relationship agreement,” involves deception and/or betrayal. With ethical non-monogamy, all partners are aware of one another and consent to the relationship.

That’s not to say that infidelity can’t happen in an ethically non-monogamous relationship. Sometimes, people in these relationships overstep boundaries and betray or deceive their partners. This might be considered infidelity.

Not exactly. Ethical non-monogamy is an umbrella term, and polyamory is just one way to practice it.

Polyamory is having intimate relationships with multiple people at the same time. In other words, you can have more than one romantic partner at the same time.

Polyamory is a form of ethical nonmonogamy — but it’s not the only form.

Other than polyamory, there are a few ways to practice ethical non-monogamy, including:

  • Polygamy: involves marriage between multiple people
  • Open relationships: involve sexual relationships among multiple people
  • Swinging: entails couples “swapping” sexual partners
  • Triads or throuples: where three people all date one another
  • Polyfidelity: all partners in a group agree not to have romantic and sexual relationships outside the established group
  • Casual sex: people have sexual relationships without any romantic relationship or commitments, possibly with multiple sexual partners
  • Casual dating: people date multiple people

It can also include relationship anarchy, although many people consider this a philosophy or a political approach as opposed to a relationship style.

Relationship anarchy challenges assumptions around relationships and the idea that one relationship (like a married relationship) is more important than other relationships (like friendships). Relationship anarchy might include having multiple intimate partners.

It’s worth noting that, for any of the above relationship styles to be considered “ethical non-monogamy,” it needs to be entirely consensual. If a partner feels coerced into swinging or if someone is forced into polygamy, that wouldn’t fit the definition of ethical non-monogamy.

Ethical non-monogamy can look different to different people. What might work for one relationship might not work for another.

In every relationship style, it’s crucial that all partners discuss their expectations and boundaries. These boundaries will differ from one relationship to the next.

For example, one partner might not want their partner/s to have sex with others without telling them beforehand. Another example is that someone might not want their partner/s to date their close friends.

Time management is a big component of ethical non-monogamy. How much time will you set aside for each partner? How will you ensure that you can spend quality time with every partner? Figuring this out beforehand is helpful, as it ensures that you have enough time and energy for everyone.

If a sexual component is involved in one or more of the relationships, it’s important to discuss ways to ensure sex practices take the health of everyone involved into account. This may include using condoms or another barrier method and frequently getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Lastly, communication is very important in every relationship. In ethical non-monogamy, it’s important to talk about your feelings about your relationships with your partners and their partners.

There are so many misconceptions about non-monogamous relationships. Here are a few:

Myth 1: Non-monogamous people don’t get jealous

Some polyamorous people don’t feel jealous, and others do. What matters is how you handle jealousy. In some cases, jealousy might actually be a sign that you need more attention and affection from your partner, in which case, that can be solved without becoming monogamous.

Myth 2: It’s all about sex

Some people who do ethical non-monogamy might not have sex at all. Some people might choose to have sex with only one person. Others may enjoy sex with multiple people or group sex. Every person who engages in non-monogamy is different.

And on that note, sex in ethically non-monogamous relationships doesn’t necessarily carry a greater risk to your health. One study showed that people who practice ethical non-monogamy are more likely to practice sex with a condom or other barrier method than those who are unfaithful in monogamous relationships.

Myth 3: Everything goes

As mentioned, every relationship is different. Boundaries differ from one relationship to the next, so what might be OK in one relationship might not be OK in the next. It’s up to each partner to communicate their desires and limits — and those limits should be respected.

Myth 4: Ethical non-monogamy is unsustainable

Many couples and polycules (that is, a group of polyamorous partners) practice ethical non-monogamy for years. Non-monogamous relationships can last a long time if that’s what all parties want.

In fact, some research indicates that there’s no difference in relationship quality and psychological well-being between consensual non-monogamous and monogamous partnerships. This means partners in both forms of relationships report similar levels of satisfaction, happiness, sexual frequency, and relationship longevity.

Myth 5: Ethical non-monogamy is always better than monogamy

Ethical non-monogamy suits some people. Monogamy suits others. Many people feel polyflexible, which means they can be happy with either relationship style. What works for the individual is unique to the individual.

Plus, infidelity, abuse, and coercion can happen in any relationship, no matter whether it’s non-monogamous or monogamous. Ethical non-monogamy can be great, but people in these relationships aren’t necessarily protected from harm.

This depends on your situation. Everybody “starts” ethical non-monogamy in a different way.

Sometimes, a couple opens their relationship to others. Sometimes, people meet other non-monogamous people and form a throuple. Others join couples in a committed or casual way.

If you’re already partnered, it’s a good idea to talk with your partner about your feelings. Discuss why you’d like to try ethical non-monogamy, and emphasize that it’s not that they’re “not enough” for you. Commit to learning more about it as a couple.

Consider connecting with other non-monogamous people without the expectation of sex or relationships. This is a good way to process your feelings, learn more about ethical non-monogamy, and form friendships with non-judgmental people. Apps and dating sites are a great place to start.

Ethical non-monogamy can become complex because there are so many ways to practice it. For this reason, it’s a good idea to continually learn more about it. New terms and concepts are constantly being developed to help people describe relationship styles more accurately, so it’s important to be open to learning those new ideas.

Ethical non-monogamy emphasizes that all partners involved consent to the practice. Whether you’re practicing polyamory, casual dating, or open relationships, it’s important to ensure everyone knows about one another and wants to be a part of the relationship style.

There are so many things to learn about ethical non-monogamy. It can’t all be covered in just one article. There are many great resources for learning about this topic.

Some books about ethical non-monogamy include:

  • “Opening Up: A Guide to Creating and Sustaining Open Relationships” by Tristan Taormino
  • “The Ethical Slut: A Practical Guide to Polyamory, Open Relationships & Other Adventures” by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton
  • “Building Open Relationships: Your Hands-On Guide to Swinging, Polyamory, and Beyond!” by Liz Powell

You can also join online forums. Websites like PolyInfo.org and Loving More can be helpful as well.

Ethical non-monogamy can be a wonderful relationship style for many people. As in all relationships, it’s essential to prioritize communication, mutual respect, and setting clear boundaries.

Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.

Ethical Non-Monogamy 101: Basics & Rules For Practicing ENM

What is ethical non-monogamy?

Ethical non-monogamy (ENM), also known as consensual non-monogamy (CNM), is an approach to relationships wherein people can have more than one romantic or sexual partner at a time, and everybody involved is aware and enthusiastically consents to the dynamic. Polyamory, open relationships, and swinging are all forms of ethically non-monogamous relationships.

"When explaining ethical or consensual non-monogamy to my clients, my go-to is the three C's: communication, consideration, and of course, consent," psychotherapist Cheyenne Taylor, LMSW, explains to mbg. "Ethical non-monogamy is based on the concept of using socially acceptable guidelines and ethically motivated tools to cultivate a relationship built on the foundation of non-monogamy. At its core, though, ENM means not cheating or acting without the consent of your partner."

Ethical non-monogamy has risen in popularity dramatically in recent years. One 2017 study1 found 1 in 5 people has been in some form of ethically non-monogamous relationship before.

What it means to practice ethical non-monogamy:

1.

You and your partner(s) agree on what you want and don't want.

There are no set "rules" when it comes to ethical non-monogamy, according to licensed therapist Rachel Wright, LMFT. Rather, the people involved in a relationship will make agreements about what the relationship dynamic will look like. "Agreements imply that both (or all) people are agreeing to something, making it an ethical and collaborative decision," she notes.

Partners can decide if they want their relationship to be committed, casual, long term, short term, romantic, sexual, or any combination of these things. They mutually agree on what types of connections they'll pursue and not pursue, both with each other and with other people, and they can set any parameters or expectations they'd like to make all parties feel comfortable.

"Every relationship has its own agreements, and that's really up to each relationship to figure out," Wright says. For example, "Some have specific things around STIs because of preexisting conditions, while others may have agreements around emotional involvements and where/how you interact with your non-live-in partner."

Advertisement

This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.

2.

Honesty is vital.

Honesty and transparency are the bedrock of ethical non-monogamy, says Taylor.

"Being clear about your boundaries, limits, and expectations is crucial when working to facilitate a healthy and sustainable relationship," she explains. "I typically recommend using frequent and sometimes scheduled check-ins as a way to put aside time to discuss feelings about the relationship, any hang-ups or issues that need adjusting, and how each person is feeling on an authentic and honest level."

People in ethically non-monogamous relationships must become comfortable with talking openly about their feelings, needs, and desires, as well as being attentive to other people's. Active listening and empathy are necessary, Taylor says. "Taking the time to reflect on and communicate your biases, insecurities, and fears around ENM before you transition into this kind of dynamic is critical."

3.

You need to care about your partners' feelings.

Being non-monogamous does not mean you get to care less about anyone's feelings and well-being. On the contrary, ethical non-monogamy necessitates a lot of care and empathy. Taylor notes that many of the same basic ethical considerations from monogamy still apply to non-monogamy: no lying to each other, no pressuring each other into things one person doesn't really want, and no going behind each other's backs.

"Making decisions that might have a direct or inadvertent impact on your partner/partners without consulting with them or gaining their consent first is not encouraged," Taylor adds.

Advertisement

This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.

4.

You can still have a primary partner.

Some non-monogamous people still choose to have one "primary" partner. This type of ethical non-monogamy is known as a hierarchal relationship.

"Hierarchical dynamics consist of partners who (for a number of reasons) prioritize time, commitment, space, etc., with certain partners over others," Taylor explains. "For example, someone may prioritize their spouse over their lover, and in this case, the spouse would be a primary partner and the lover would be a secondary partner. "

5.

You can also choose to have non-hierarchal relationships.

Some people who practice ethical non-monogamy don't have or want a primary partner. Instead, all their partners may be considered equally important or important in different ways. "In non-hierarchical dynamics, relationships are not necessarily categorized based on level of importance or priority," Taylor explains.

For example, a person might have many casual partners, none of whom you consider a "committed" life partner. Or, a person might have two partners who they're equally committed to. Some people might have a group of people where everyone is dating one another—for example, a triad is a relationship with three people who are all romantically involved with one another, or a quad is a group of four people who are all romantically involved with one another.

Advertisement

This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.

6.

There will be ups and downs.

"I think it's important to note that relationships are relationships are relationships," Wright says. "What I mean by that is, human connection is human connection, and whether you're in a monogamous or non-monogamous relationship, they all have the potential for experiencing challenges, conflict, joy, pain, and every other emotion under the sun."

She says it's common for people to experience all sorts of positive and negative emotions in an ethically non-monogamous relationship, including "jealousy, insecurity, fear, worry, doubt, excitement, increased libido, deepened connection with 'original' partner, autonomy, freedom, conscious boundaries, conscious communication, abundant gratitude, and compersion!"

7.

Yes, you'll likely be jealous sometimes.

"There is a common misconception that people who agree to enter ENM relationships don't experience jealousy. This is simply not true," Taylor says. "Jealousy happens. This is why communication and honesty are key. "

Over time, people in ethically non-monogamous relationships may experience jealousy less often or less intensely, or they may simply have better ways of coping with it when it crops up.

"One of the best practices you can have is having a practice of self-reflection and unlearning," Wright says. "We are deeply programmed for monogamy and even when we choose to practice otherwise, the impulses and feelings we get don't follow suit so quickly. There is a big transition process into the mindset of ENM."

Advertisement

This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.

8.

It can be a lifestyle, or it can be an identity.

Some people view non-monogamy as a lifestyle choice, whereas others experience it as an orientation or intrinsic part of their identity, says Wright.

"I experience polyamory the way I experience my bisexuality and queerness—as an orientation," she tells mbg. "Both as a mental health professional and as a person in the polyam community, I think there is a mix of people, some finding it more of a lifestyle choice and some find that, like me, it would be more of a choice not to. "

Ethical non-monogamy vs. polyamory.

Polyamory is one form of ethical non-monogamy, with the latter acting as an umbrella term that encompasses many types of relationships. Swinging, casual sex, open relationships, and polyamory are all forms of ethical non-monogamy, and there are many others.

Polyamory refers to having multiple romantic partners at once, which not all ethically non-monogamous people do. For example, a couple might occasionally have sex with other couples (aka swinging), but they don't actually date people other than each other. That's a form of ethical non-monogamy, but it's not necessarily polyamory.

Ethical non-monogamy vs. open relationship.

Open relationships are another form of ethical non-monogamy, with ethical non-monogamy being the umbrella term. Open relationships refer to any relationship where partners are currently open to sexual or romantic relationships with other people. Not all ethically non-monogamous relationships are open relationships. For example, three people might be dating each another and no one else, and they may not be open to any other relationships. This is a form of ethical non-monogamy, but it's not an open relationship.

Ethical non-monogamy vs. cheating.

Cheating is when you break the agreements of your relationship, in particular those related to sexual and romantic fidelity.

Ethical non-monogamy is not cheating, because in an ENM relationship, all partners have agreed to a relationship wherein everyone is free to be intimate with other people. Intimacy with others is part of the agreement, and therefore it is not cheating because everyone is in the know and consents to what's happening.

Cheating, on the other hand, is non-consensual and unethical non-monogamy, because it involves going behind your partner's back and engaging in intimate relations with other people without your partner's consent.

Importantly, cheating can also happen in ENM relationships: For example, two partners might agree that they're allowed to have sex with other people, but they won't develop romantic or emotional relationships with others. If one partner secretly has a second serious girlfriend, that would be cheating—because it's breaking the agreement they made to not engage romantically with others.

ENM is grounded in consent and mutual trust; cheating ignores those things completely.

Types of ethically non-monogamous relationships.

Here's a non-exhaustive list of some different forms of ethical non-monogamy: 

  • Polyamory: An approach to relationships wherein people can have multiple romantic or sexual relationships at the same time.
  • Threesomes: A couple brings in a third person to have sex with them, whether for a one-night-stand or regularly. (Here's our guide to threesomes.)
  • Swinging: When a couple has sex with another couple and/or "swaps partners."
  • Cuckolding: When a couple brings in a third party to have sex with one of the partners, often with the other partner watching. (Here's our guide to cuckolding. )
  • Hierarchical relationships: A relationship where there's a set of "primary partners," usually a couple, who prioritize each other while also having "secondary" partners.
  • Polyfidelity: A relationship between a group of people where all members are equal partners in the relationship, and no one has sex with or dates people outside the group. Triads or throuples (groups of three), quads (groups of four), and vees (a three-person relationship where one person is dating two people, but those two people are not dating each other) can be forms of polyfidelity. (Here's our guide to polycules.)
  • Relationship anarchy: An approach to relationships, usually non-hierarchal, where there are no set rules or expectations other than the ones that involved partners agree upon. (Here's our guide to relationship anarchy.)
  • Open relationships: When a couple or set of partners are currently open to new romantic or sexual partners.
  • Casual dating or casual sex: When people casually date and have sex with multiple people, with everyone knowing that it's happening.
  • Monogamish: A couple that's mostly monogamous but might occasionally have sex with other people in certain situations.

FAQ:

What's the difference between ethical non-monogamy and polyamory?

Polyamory is one form of ethical non-monogamy, which is an umbrella term that also includes swinging, open relationships, romantic triads and quads, and much more. Polyamory usually involves an openness to multiple loving relationships, whereas ethical non-monogamy could involve openness to multiple loves, openness to multiple sexual partners only, or a multi-person romantic relationship that is not currently open to new connections.

Is ethical non-monogamy the same as an open relationship?

An open relationship is one where the partners involved are currently open to new connections. Open relationships are one form of ethical non-monogamy, but not all ethically non-monogamous relationships are open to new connections at all times. For example, three people may be dating each other exclusively as a triad but not open to any other additional connections.

Is ethical non-monogamy healthy?

Monogamous relationships can be healthy or unhealthy, and likewise, ethical non-monogamous relationships can sometimes be healthy and sometimes be unhealthy. In general, ENM is not more or less healthy than monogamy. It all just depends on the individuals involved and the dynamics between them.

The takeaway.

Ethical non-monogamy is a broad term that encompasses any form of relationship (romantic or sexual) that doesn't take the form of an exclusive, monogamous relationship between two people. It can be liberating, fun, a lifestyle choice, or simply just the way you are. It can also be confusing, complicated, stressful, and hard. (Just like any other kind of relationship!)

If you're interested in trying ethical non-monogamy for the first time, here's how to know if an open relationship is right for you and how to ask for an open relationship.

What is ethical non-monogamy and polyamory and why is it normal?

Polyamory is characterized by:

  • Approval of non-monogamous relationships by all participants

  • Full love for all partners and his other partner does not know about it, this is not polyamory. In polyamory, all connections are coordinated with each of the participants in the relationship. nine0003

    Polyamory is characterized by love and affection for several people at the same time. That is, the relationship of at least one participant in polyamorous unions is built not with one person, but with several at once. In such relationships, emotional support is important so that each of their participants feels comfortable.

    It is believed that there are as many different forms of interaction of polyamory as polyamorous, but the following are most often distinguished: The main partners often have a common ground - place of residence or budget, for example. nine0003

    Policula - a group of partners between whom there is both a sexual and emotional connection.

    Wii - three people, one of whom has a relationship with two others who are neither sexually nor emotionally connected to each other.

    Triad - three people connected sexually and romantically with each other.

    Open group - polyamorous relationships of participants are not limited to a given social circle. nine0003

    Relationship anarchy — departure from patterns in the approach to the concept of love. Love according to this principle is an endless resource, and it is possible to love more than one person without comparing people and without driving yourself and relationships into frames. In this form of relationship, agreements are developed for all participants that suit everyone and do not force something to be done against the will of these participants.

    There are also the following terms in polyamory:

    • Main partner — priority partner in hierarchical relations

    • An additional partner - a partner in the hierarchy who assigned a secondary role

    • Unicorn - as a rule, a bisexual partner becoming a third participant in the triad
      • 9000 9000 9000 9000
    • SOLO - Solo Solo, Suppend ideas of polyamory, but not having a relationship

    • Metamor - partner of a partner who does not have a sexual or romantic relationship with another partner

    • Compersion - the joy that a loved one gets satisfaction from relationships with another partner

    Polyamory is multifaceted, there is a place for monogamy in it. Polyamorous relationships sometimes consist of people who do not find themselves in need of a third participant in the relationship, but admit the possibility that the partner has several love affairs.

    how and why non-monogamous relationships work |

    Many of us in the United States grew up in a culture that reflected serial monogamy. It was presented as perhaps the only option when it came to love and sex. Perhaps you grew up in a family where marriage was valued and the hope was that you would grow up, find one partner and be with them in a long-term monogamous marriage. But what if that's not what you need? There are many reasons why a person may identify with non-monogamy. You and the person or people with whom you are connected may value diversity in love and sex, or you may be attracted to several people rather than one. You may also identify with non-monogamy because it is true that different people can give different things. For example, an asexual partner may not want to have sex, but the other partner may fill that need. The same may be true for a number of other physical or emotional needs and desires. Sometimes it is about openness to new experience as a general concept; you can meet someone and decide from the start to be in an open relationship so that you have a basis for conversation if one or both of you want to involve the other person, or you can just know you want to explore your sexuality. The general idea behind all of these scenarios is that they must be ethical in order to work. nine0003 Source: rawpixel.com

    Ethical non-monogamy is when more than two people are involved in a relationship with the consent of all parties involved. Definition of "monogamy" Merriam-Webster; "the condition or practice of having only one sexual partner at a time", & ldquo; the state or custom of being married to only one person at a time & rdquo; or, in zoology, "the condition or practice of having a single partner for a given period of time". If you are not monogamous, you may have multiple partners. The ethical component of ethical non-monogamy refers to the following:


    All members of the partnership agree to its terms and are satisfied with it.

    Each member of the partnership has a full and consistent understanding of what is and is not considered cheating in a relationship.


    All members of the partnership treat each other with respect.

    There is constant communication in a relationship that allows the above to be true.


    In an ethical non-monogamous relationship, a person cannot be pushed, pulled, or intimidated into breaking their own rules. They will feel loved and respected, and the relationship as a whole will be aligned and agreed upon by all the people involved. nine0003

    Various types of ethical non-monogamy

    There are terms that describe certain types of non-monogamous relationships. Here are a few terms you may come across when learning about non-monogamy and what they mean.

    Polyamory

    The dictionary definition of polyamory is "the practice of engaging in multiple sexual relationships with the consent of all the people involved." This refers to a consensual romantic relationship with multiple partners or a desire to do so. nine0003

    Polygamy


    Polygamy means having more than one husband or wife in a relationship. It differs from polyamory because polygamy refers specifically to marriage.

    Open relationship

    Open relationship refers to an existing relationship that is open to include people outside of the main partnership. It differs from polyamory in that when people use the term "open relationship" they usually refer to a primary relationship of two people that is open to include additional people, whereas polyamory involves multiple partners with two of them not are considered the main members of the relationship. nine0003

    Swing or swing

    Swing is the practice of changing partners with another couple by mutual agreement. People who self-identify as swingers sometimes engage in group sex or sex involving multiple sexual partners at the same time.

    You may also meet people who have never been in a non-monogamous relationship, but are interested in one or have just started to discover their relationship. These people may consider themselves "monogamous". or “ open to non-monogamy & rdquo; nine0003

    What should I do if people around me don't understand non-monogamy?

    Source: rawpixel.com

    Sometimes the people around you don't understand you or your choices. This applies to your romantic life, your career, and generally any other choice you make. If you're new to non-monogamy, your views on it may be blurred by what you've heard from others who don't support it and don't understand what it means to be non-monogamous. Research shows that views on non-monogamy are changing with younger generations, particularly millennials who are more open to it. If the people around you who are not in your relationship don't understand this, the best thing you can do is try to explain. If someone continues to criticize you, set boundaries and explain that you are happy in your relationship. If you're happy, secure, and loved in your relationship, that's all you can really dream of in terms of romance. Remember that your opinion of your life matters more than anyone else's and that it is up to you to decide what makes you happy. nine0003

    Can you cheat in a non-monogamous relationship?

    In a non-monogamous relationship, one can completely cheat. Fidelity may look different than a monogamous relationship, but it's still a vital part of a non-monogamous relationship. Remember that the person or people you work with need to be up to date and feel loved and respected. A non-monogamous relationship does not mean that you can do whatever you want with anyone or that you can change without consequences. They are no less serious than a monogamous relationship, as are the terms you and your partner agree on what counts as cheating. If you deviate from the terms that you and your partner or partners have agreed on, you are cheating. For example, if you have agreed that you will always tell your partner or partners when you sleep with someone else, but you go behind their back and sleep with someone else without telling them, that is cheating. nine0003

    Who is ethical non-monogamy suitable for?

    Source: rawpixel.com

    Ethical non-monogamy suits those who desire it, have the communication skills to make it work, and who feel free to let go of things like jealousy. If jealousy occurs https://dictionary.apa.org/jealousy, it prevents monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. What is often remarkable about nonmonogamy is that it releases the jealousy component. If you identify more with monogamy and feel jealous if there were multiple people in a relationship, then non-monogamy of any kind probably isn't for you. Communication is the key to any relationship, but it's especially important in an ethically non-monogamous relationship. We can always improve our communication skills and will never be perfect in this regard, but the more you work on effective communication, the better your relationship will be. This is true whether you are in a monogamous or non-monogamous relationship. If you're having trouble communicating with or with your partner, therapy can be a great place to get some support in the form of guidance to help you through the process. Both couples and individual counseling can help you solve a problem and develop new skills. Whether you're seeing a psychologist or therapist online or in person, counseling can help you succeed in relationships. nine0003

    How to find a non-monogamous relationship

    If you are single and interested in a relationship, you are probably in the dating scene. The main thing here is to be open about what you are looking for from the very beginning. Some people call themselves "serial monogamists". and will not be interested in the potential of non-monogamous relationships of any kind. If you are open about what you want, there are many more opportunities to meet like-minded people and weed out those who do not want the same. Alternatively, you may already be in a relationship and non-monogamy may be something you want to instill in your partner. Here again, open communication is vital. Your partner needs to feel like they can say 'no', and you also need to be able to communicate your thoughts. If you find that both are interested in a non-monogamous partnership, that's great! It's time to work on the communication part and make sure the partnership rules are agreed and your personal needs as an individual are stated. nine0003

    Online counseling

    Source: rawpixel.com

    Online counseling is a great place to overcome any obstacles in your relationship. It's confidential, and it gives you the ability to talk to a licensed provider about what's on your mind from the comfort of your own home. Whether you choose to see a mental health provider on an individual basis or with a partner, ReGain Online Consultants are here to help. Search online for ReGain mental health professionals and find what works for you.

    Learn more