Polyamory in Plain Sight: Loving Outside the Norm of Monogamy

Date
2022-01-27
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Abstract

A mononormative society is one in which monogamy is the accepted and expected romantic relationship structure. Alternatives to monogamy are becoming more visible and people are increasingly engaging in these alternatives. Polyamory is a form of consensual non-monogamy in which individuals engage in more than one intimate relationship at a time with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Considering monogamy is viewed as the optimal relationship structure, it is not surprising that polyamorous relationships are stigmatized and widely misunderstood. Even so, there are many people who choose to engage in polyamorous relationships. In the last 15 years, academic research exploring polyamory has been increasing, though there is still a lack of understanding about how individuals in such relationships navigate and make sense of a sociopolitical system that does not necessarily support them. Informed by queer theory, this study implemented an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to gain a deeper understanding about the experiences of individuals in polyamorous relationships. To fully explore this topic, semi-structured interviews were completed with 10 polyamorous participants to answer the following research question: What are the lived experiences of individuals in polyamorous relationships within a mononormative context? Data analysis resulted in six superordinate themes: 1) self-concept; 2) navigating polyamory; 3) coming out of the poly closet; 4) the problem with assumptions; 5) mononormativity; and 6) trail-blazing. The findings of this study may be used to further inform counsellors working with polyamorous clients, the general public, policy makers, and governments about the needs of this community.

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Keywords
Polyamory, Consensual Non-Monogamy, Mononormativity, Queer Theory, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, Qualitative Research
Citation
Falardeau, C. (2022). Polyamory in Plain Sight: Loving Outside the Norm of Monogamy (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.