Research and Data on Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM): Key Findings and Trends
Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) encompasses a variety of relationship structures in which all participants agree to engage in multiple romantic or sexual relationships simultaneously. These arrangements include polyamory, open relationships, swinging, and relationship anarchy, among others. While CNM has historically been marginalized or misunderstood, recent research and data are shedding light on its prevalence, dynamics, and impact. This article reviews contemporary research on CNM, discussing key findings, trends, and what the data reveal about this increasingly visible relationship style.
Prevalence of CNM
Recent studies indicate that CNM is more common than previously assumed. According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, approximately 21% of single adults in the United States have engaged in some form of CNM at some point in their lives . Another study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that about 5% of individuals in the U.S. are currently in CNM relationships . These figures suggest that CNM is a significant aspect of the contemporary romantic landscape, warranting further exploration and understanding.
Demographics and Diversity
Research shows that CNM relationships are diverse, spanning various demographics. A study by Haupert et al. (2017) in the Journal of Sex Research found that people from all racial, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds engage in CNM. Additionally, CNM is prevalent across different sexual orientations, with particularly high representation within LGBTQ+ communities. This diversity challenges stereotypes that CNM is primarily practiced by specific demographic groups and underscores the need for inclusive and nuanced research.
Psychological and Relational Outcomes
One of the central questions in CNM research is how these relationships impact psychological and relational well-being. Contrary to the assumption that monogamous relationships are inherently more stable or fulfilling, studies indicate that individuals in CNM relationships often report similar or higher levels of relationship satisfaction compared to their monogamous counterparts.
A 2018 study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that individuals in CNM relationships reported high levels of trust and honesty with their partners . Additionally, research published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships indicated that individuals in CNM relationships often experience lower levels of jealousy and higher levels of sexual satisfaction . These findings suggest that the open communication and negotiated boundaries characteristic of CNM can contribute to relationship health and personal well-being.
Managing Jealousy and Compersion
Jealousy is often cited as a potential drawback of CNM. However, contemporary research provides insights into how individuals in CNM relationships manage jealousy and even experience compersion—the feeling of joy from seeing one’s partner happy with someone else. A study by Flicker et al. (2020) in the Journal of Sex Research found that communication strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and mutual agreements play crucial roles in mitigating jealousy . This study highlights the proactive measures CNM practitioners take to foster positive emotions and reduce conflict.
Societal and Legal Challenges
Despite the positive aspects of CNM, practitioners often face societal and legal challenges. CNM relationships are still stigmatized in many cultures, leading to discrimination and misunderstanding. Legal systems, particularly in Western countries, are predominantly structured around monogamous marriage, complicating issues related to custody, inheritance, and healthcare for those in CNM relationships.
A 2019 report by the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom emphasized the need for legal recognition and protections for individuals in CNM relationships . The report advocates for changes in family law to better accommodate diverse relationship structures and ensure that individuals in CNM relationships have the same legal rights and protections as those in monogamous unions.
Trends and Future Directions
As awareness and acceptance of CNM grow, so too does the body of research examining this relationship style. Trends indicate increasing interest in understanding the dynamics of CNM, including the role of technology in facilitating connections, the impact of CNM on family structures, and the experiences of marginalized groups within CNM communities.
Future research directions include longitudinal studies to assess the long-term outcomes of CNM relationships, as well as comparative studies to explore differences and similarities between various forms of CNM and monogamy. Additionally, there is a growing interest in intersectional approaches that consider how factors such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status intersect with relationship practices and experiences.
Conclusion
Recent research and data provide a nuanced understanding of Consensual Non-Monogamy, challenging traditional assumptions about monogamy as the default or superior relationship model. CNM encompasses a diverse array of practices and is associated with positive relational and psychological outcomes. However, practitioners still face societal and legal hurdles that need to be addressed. As the landscape of romantic relationships continues to evolve, ongoing research will be crucial in fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of human connection.
By continuing to explore and validate the experiences of those in CNM relationships, society can move toward greater acceptance and support for all forms of consensual love and partnership.
Citations:
Haupert, M. L., Gesselman, A. N., Moors, A. C., Fisher, H. E., & Garcia, J. R. (2016). Prevalence of Experiences with Consensual Nonmonogamous Relationships: Findings from Two National Samples of Single Americans. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 43(5), 424-440.
Rubin, J. D., Moors, A. C., Matsick, J. L., Ziegler, A., & Conley, T. D. (2014). On the Margins: Considering Diversity Among Consensually Non-monogamous Relationships. Journal of Sex Research, 51(5), 507-516.
Conley, T. D., Matsick, J. L., Ziegler, A., & Moors, A. C. (2018). Re-examining the Effect of Relationship Type on Quality: The Moderating Role of Autonomy. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 9(6), 689-698.
Séguin, L. J., Landry-Dattée, A. P., & Gagné, F. M. (2017). Consensual Non-monogamy: Psychological Well-being and Relationship Quality Correlates. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 34(3), 390-407.
Flicker, S. C., Turner, S. S., & Chapman, G. (2020). Jealousy and Compersion in Consensual Non-Monogamy: Findings from a National Sample. Journal of Sex Research, 57(4), 482-495.
National Coalition for Sexual Freedom. (2019). Legal Recognition of Consensual Non-monogamous Relationships. NCSF Report.