A quick search on Google in preparation for this feature on polyamory sprung a few surprises. Most of the “psychology” articles geared towards this relationship structure made it seem like a majority of women want to be in polyamorous relationships. However, it is crucial to recognise that promoting the idea that such a positioning inherently empowers women may not necessarily align with reality. In fact, it might strip women of their autonomy to establish their preferred relationship model.
Throughout history, the cultural mindset predominantly upheld monogamy as the sole socially acceptable choice, particularly for women. It was commonly held that monogamy was deemed “unnatural”, thus making it socially acceptable for men to engage in extramarital affairs. Conversely, women were expected to remain faithful to a single partner for the duration of their lives. It is noteworthy that this societal norm had less to do with ensuring women’s satisfaction and more to do with exerting control over them. This mindset emerged at a time when human society began to prioritise the determination of paternity for an inheritance, and the only method to guarantee a child’s paternity was by controlling women’s sexual behaviour.
Polyamory, as a relationship structure, can, in a sense, provide women with greater agency over their choices. It empowers them to explore their sexuality, establish boundaries when a relationship dynamic isn’t suitable, and engage in open and honest conversations about fundamental human emotions. It’s essential to recognise that polyamory involves acknowledging the wide diversity of human relationships, which may not always conform to conventional patterns. For instance, one might have a friend with whom they enjoy cuddling but have no desire for a sexual relationship or a consistent sexual partner with whom they do not wish to share a living arrangement. Alternatively, individuals might maintain a committed quasi-monogamous relationship with one person while permitting each other to engage in sexual relationships with others when one of them is away. In essence, polyamory accommodates a spectrum of relationship structures that may not adhere to the strict confines of traditional monogamy.
Polyamory accommodates a spectrum of relationship structures. Image: Pexels
Polyamory, as a relationship structure, can, in a sense, provide women with greater agency over their choices. It empowers them to explore their sexuality, establish boundaries when a relationship dynamic isn’t suitable, and engage in open and honest conversations about fundamental human emotions. It’s essential to recognise that polyamory involves acknowledging the wide diversity of human relationships, which may not always conform to conventional patterns. For instance, one might have a friend with whom they enjoy cuddling but have no desire for a sexual relationship or a consistent sexual partner with whom they do not wish to share a living arrangement. Alternatively, individuals might maintain a committed quasi-monogamous relationship with one person while permitting each other to engage in sexual relationships with others when one of them is away. In essence, polyamory accommodates a spectrum of relationship structures that may not adhere to the strict confines of traditional monogamy.