Abstract

Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) represents a relationship structure that incorporates additional partners into the dynamics of a dyadic primary relationship. CNM commands a nontrivial proportion of the population and is categorized into three forms: polyamory, swinging, and open relationships. Foundational research has uncovered that CNM relationships are rather common, diverse, and relationally healthy, despite the CNM population facing significant societal stigmas. This study was designed to complement research supporting the relational quality of CNM relationships by utilizing a self-determination theory framework. Participants in CNM (n = 124) and monogamous relationships (n = 164) were tested and quantitative analysis revealed that relationship motivation (the motivation to maintain one’s relationship) and need satisfaction (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) were extremely strong predictors of relationship satisfaction. Subgroups analysis evidenced that monogamous and polyamorous relationships had no significant differences on any relational variables, while open relationships had poorer relational outcomes compared to the other relationship structures. Exploratory findings showed that happiness was the most frequently cited spillover benefit (the improvement in the primary relationship as a result of having an extradyadic or secondary partner) for CNM relationship participants. A “Relationship Agreement Template” with three related Worksheets were created to assist counselors and relationship partners with implementing a CNM relationship structure. Future studies may assess additional predictors of CNM relationship satisfaction, other relational constructs, or individual well-being variables, with separate conclusions for each of the CNM relationship forms. Issues such as empathy, destigmatization, and widespread adoption are discussed with implications for future CNM research.

First Advisor

Rostyslaw Robak

Document Type

ETD

Date of Award

7-15-2024

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