Until recently, non-monogamous relationships received little attention and were rarely featured in the media. But things are changing, and they are gaining prominence.
For this reason, in the following lines we'll discuss the myths that still exist about non-monogamous relationships. Our goal is for you to understand these myths and grasp the true reality. Sometimes we believe everything we're told because we don't seek information. And that's why we're here: to open your eyes to these types of relationships.
1- Monogamy is not natural
It has been shown that in nature there are many options for relationships. This means that these relationships can be monogamous or non-monogamous. It all depends on the animal species in question.
If we focus on human beings, we realize that monogamy has been the most common in the Western world. But just because culture dictates it doesn't mean it's the only natural option. This can be seen in other cultures where non-monogamy is more common than it seems. Some cultures, like the Mosuo people in China, choose this option and it works quite well for them. For this reason, we should forget this myth and see the options as possibilities. Each person should choose the one that best suits their needs.
2- If you desire another person while in a relationship, it's because something is wrong.
It's very common to hear that if you look at someone else while you're with your partner, something is wrong. But that's not the case. It's been shown that you can be very happy with your partner, love them, and still look at or even be attracted to other people. This belief is directly linked to myths of romantic love, like the soulmate myth. But it's been shown that there are many people who can be a good match for us.
But as you'll see for yourself, you can love someone and be attracted to others. You can even love different people at the same time. Human beings have become very protective of their beliefs, but those beliefs should be replaced with more modern ones. A person can love their partner very much and be attracted to others. And that doesn't mean the relationship is in jeopardy.
3- Non-monogamous relationships are consensual infidelities
It's vital to differentiate between consensual and non-monogamous relationships. If both parties are informed about the type of relationship they're in and both agree, then there's no infidelity. However, if there's no consent, then infidelity by one of the partners is possible.
Choosing the type of relationship should always be a free choice and must be agreed upon by both parties. If one party doesn't agree, the relationship cannot work because they will suffer greatly. Many couples who have opted for open relationships have found it very successful. But as we've mentioned, both parties must be aware of and agree to this type of relationship.
4- Non-monogamous people are incapable of commitment
This is another common myth worth highlighting in this article. When a non-monogamous relationship occurs, it's necessary to create and respect various bonds. These bonds are typically loving, affectionate, and sexual, and they must be maintained with a minimum level of commitment.
But many people think that commitment is impossible within a non-monogamous relationship. But that's not true. A person can be committed to more than one person, which proves that this belief is completely wrong.
5- Non-monogamous relationships must be symmetrical
This is another myth that needs to be debunked. It has been shown that agreements don't always have to be equal; sometimes they can be adapted to the wishes or needs of the person involved. This doesn't mean they are less fair to one party, but rather adjusted. For example, sometimes a couple might have one partner who is monogamous and the other polyamorous.
6- Non-monogamous people have more sexually transmitted diseases
Contracting a sexually transmitted infection is not linked to the number of sexual partners, but rather to the level of protection used. Sometimes, people prioritize love over sex, which is common in polyamorous relationships, including those with multiple partners.
For this reason, the myth is false. A person who has many sexual partners is not more likely to contract sexually transmitted infections. It all depends on the level of protection used during those encounters. If they are aware of the risks, they will take precautions, and consequently, those encounters will not pose a risk to them.
7- Non-monogamous people do not feel jealousy
It has been shown that a person in this type of relationship can experience jealousy just like anyone else. The important thing isn't jealousy itself, which demonstrates love for a particular person. What matters is how it's managed. To manage it effectively, it's vital to find the root of that jealousy and address any underlying insecurities. Often, jealousy is unfounded, which is why it's essential to cultivate trust and strengthen relationships to avoid experiencing it. But the most important thing to understand is that everyone can experience jealousy, regardless of the type of relationship they're in.
