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glossary of sex-positive terms
Polyamory is a type of relationship model where people are openly involved in multiple romantic relationships with the consent of all parties involved. It is different from other relationship models in that it involves more than two people and everyone knows about the other relationships. Polyamory is not to be confused with polygamy, which is when one person has multiple spouses, or an open relationship, which typically involves one primary partner and then casual encounters with others. While polyamorous people may have multiple partners, they are usually all considered to be equally important in the dynamic.
Unlike monogamous relationships, where partners agree to be exclusive to each other, polyamorous relationships allow for more freedom and flexibility within the arrangement. This could mean having several primary partners who all live together or have regular visits with each other while also engaging in additional casual relations outside of these primary partnerships.
The key element of polyamory that sets it apart from traditional monogamy is communication and consent between all parties involved at a much deeper level than would be expected in a single partner relationship. All participants must agree on what level of involvement they each want out of the dynamic and must communicate openly about their feelings and expectations throughout the process.
Most importantly for those engaging in polyamorous relationships, there should never be any pressure or obligation between any participants; this kind of arrangement should always happen out of mutual respect for each person’s individual needs and desires within their various partnerships. Polyamory can benefit those looking for emotional connection beyond what a monogamous partnership can provide while still allowing them to maintain their autonomy as individuals who may engage in both intimate and casual encounters outside their main partnership(s).
