Love comes in many forms. Some may be attracted to a different gender, while others may be attracted to the same.
Similarly, some people may want to have only one partner, while others prefer to have more than one. This is called polyamory and there are many different ways someone may be polyamorous.
While it is not necessarily part of the queer spectrum of sexualities, polyamory may not be viewed as widely accepted by society at the time being. This is why it is important to spread the word about polyamory and the truth behind polyamorous relationships.
For relationship advice and information on sexuality, you can visit BetterHelp. BetterHelp is an online therapy resource and advice forum where you can find a range of articles on topics that could help you to develop and maintain healthier relationships.
What is polyamory?
Polyamory is defined as the practice of having multiple romantic relationships at the same time.
It is not necessarily a type of sexuality, although people of any sexuality can practice polyamory. It is also not the same as polygamy, the practice of marrying multiple people.
While many people may enjoy dating around and having several casual relationships at one time, this is not quite the same as polyamory.
Polyamory typically involves committed, loving relationships. This can look like having multiple, committed partnerships when those partners do or do not see other people as well.
It can also look like one romantic relationship among more than two people, in which everyone involved only sees others in the group.
Why would someone want to be polyamorous?
While many might think of polyamorous relationships as unusual or strange, people who are polyamorous see them as quite natural.
You may realize that you yourself have been attracted to others while in a relationship with someone or have loved multiple people throughout your life. You may also fear the idea of getting “stuck” being romantic with only one person for the rest of your life. Polyamorous people seek to alleviate these feelings.
Polyamorous people don’t necessarily have it easy. It can be hard to work through feelings of jealousy and breakups still happen, but they seek to have healthier relationships in which partners are free to experience feelings of love towards multiple individuals at once without repercussions.
Am I polyamorous?
Many people can fall in love with more than one person throughout their lifetime and still never want to take part in a polyamorous relationship. That is okay. There is nothing wrong with monogamous relationships.
However, you may be interested in trying a polyamorous relationship if you feel like you often fall in love with multiple people at once, and spend a lot of energy on romantic relationships.
Keep in mind that all the work you do for one romantic relationship is typically amplified when you date more than one person.
Final thoughts
While the concept and acceptance of polyamory in modern society may still be novel, it has actually existed for hundreds of years throughout different cultures.
At the core of polyamory, like all relationships, is informed consent for all partners involved, making sure that everyone is content and has their needs met.
Polyamory can be a healthy way to experience relationships and allow partners to feel free while still maintaining intimate, committed connections.
About Author: Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.