Table of contents
- What is an open relationship?
- Who is it right for?
- Specific benefits of open dynamics
- Set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to change them
- Clear communication with upfront agreement
- Honesty enables authenticity
A rising number of people have begun exploring non-monogamous sexual or romantic relationships in recent years. A recent survey revealed that almost 17% of people wanted to engage in polyamory, and more than 10% had done so at some point. 6.5% shared they knew someone who was or had been in a polyamorous relationship. 14.2% indicated that they respected people who engaged in polyamory but were not personally interested in it.
What is an open relationship?
Two people in an open relationship typically have sexual relationships with other individuals, but open relationships vary based on what feels right for each separate couple. Even in 2024, the term “open relationship” remains shrouded in mist. Some people use it to describe all relationships involving ethical non monogamy, including swinging and polyamory.
Who is it right for?
If the thought of your partner being intimate with someone else is unsettling, it’s not for you. On the other hand, you’ve made the right choice if:
- You’re curious about exploring different relationship dynamics
- You’re excited by the idea of multiple sexual partners
- You are willing to communicate openly and honestly with your partner no matter what
- You are prepared to deal with any jealousy that arises in open relationships
- You have enough time to dedicate to multiple relationships.
Specific benefits of open dynamics
According to a 2020 longitudinal study, people are just as happy in open relationships as in monogamous ones. However, open relationships can have specific benefits, such as greater sexual satisfaction, a more extensive social network, a fundamentally strong level of communication, or an enhanced sense of adventure or novelty.
Set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to change them
Successful open couples set clear boundaries that work for their relationship. If their feelings or needs change, they can ask for corresponding changes to these boundaries. Open relationships are not for emotionally immature people.
Outline your boundaries regarding the age, number, and gender of your partners. Typical boundaries address levels of disclosure about other partners and safer sex practices. For example, a partner should always inform the other if an unsafe practice occurs.
Maintaining clear communication with upfront agreement
People in open relationships must agree on the rules for their relationships with others. They should negotiate upfront and possibly revisit the topic as the relationship evolves. Communication, including constructive arguments, is crucial in relationships of all formats. Over 35% of couples find that learning to argue constructively is critical for a strong relationship.
US couples spend an average of 17 hours a week of quality time together, with 49% saying they engage in meaningful conversations at least once a week. Quality time could be even more important for people in an unconventional relationship.
Clear communication begins with knowing what you want and why. Choose a place and time when you both feel relaxed and comfortable and approach all discussions with an open mind.
Honesty enables authenticity
Your partner can’t get to know you if you’re not your authentic self. People in open relationships must feel safe to express their wishes, needs, and limits. They need to be able to speak up if challenging feelings arise, like insecurity, jealousy, or anxiety.
An individual might start having doubts about their primary partner. It’s easy to fall in love with someone else in an open dynamic. People can learn to separate love and sex, and they can love more than one person at the same time. One never knows what they are capable of unless they are brave enough to experiment. Respect, honesty, and clarity should always be priorities in an open relationship dynamic.
Recap
- Outlining boundaries as to the age, number, and gender of partners
- Addressing levels of disclosure about other partners and safer sex practices
- Agreeing on rules ahead of time
- Talking only when relaxed and comfortable
- One must feel safe to express their wishes, needs, limits