- Open Relationship: A relationship where partners agree to allow each other to have romantic or sexual relationships with other people.
- Polyamory: The practice of having multiple intimate relationships with the consent of all parties involved.
- Primary Partner: The main or most important partner in a polyamorous or open relationship.
- Secondary Partner: A partner in a polyamorous or open relationship who holds a less central or primary role.
- Tertiary Partner: A partner in a polyamorous or open relationship who holds a less central or secondary role.
- Metamour: The partner of one’s partner in a polyamorous relationship, with whom one is not directly involved romantically or sexually.
- Polyfidelity: A form of polyamory in which all partners agree to be sexually active only with other members of the group.
- Mono-Poly Relationship: A relationship in which one partner is monogamous while the other partner is polyamorous.
- Swinging: A form of open relationship in which partners engage in recreational sex with others as a couple.
- Compersion: The feeling of joy one experiences when their partner is happy with another romantic or sexual partner.
- Jealousy: A natural emotion that can arise in open relationships or polyamorous arrangements when one feels threatened or insecure about a partner’s other relationships.
- Non-Hierarchical Polyamory: A form of polyamory in which all partners are considered equal and no hierarchy is established.
- Kitchen Table Polyamory: A style of polyamory where all partners are comfortable gathering around a kitchen table and interacting with one another.
- Solo Polyamory: A form of polyamory in which individuals prioritize their independence and autonomy, often without a primary partner.
- Relationship Anarchy: A philosophy that emphasizes the importance of creating and defining relationships based on individual needs and desires, rather than following societal norms or expectations.
- Polycule: A term used to describe the interconnected network of people in a polyamorous relationship.
- Vee Relationship: A type of polyamorous relationship in which one person is romantically involved with two others, but the two others are not romantically involved with each other.
- Triad: A polyamorous relationship involving three people who are all romantically and/or sexually involved with each other.
- Quad: A polyamorous relationship involving four people who are all romantically and/or sexually involved with each other.
- Nesting Partner: A partner with whom one shares a primary residence in a nesting relationship.
- Boundaries: Clear guidelines and limits established within relationships to ensure the emotional and physical safety of all parties involved.
- Communication: A crucial aspect of any relationship, including open relationships and polyamory, which involves openly and honestly expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs.
- Ethical Non-Monogamy: A broad term that encompasses all forms of consensual and ethical non-monogamous relationships, including open relationships and polyamory.
- New Relationship Energy (NRE): The intense and often euphoric feeling that comes with the beginning of a new romantic relationship.
- Relationship Maintenance: The ongoing effort to nurture and sustain healthy relationships through effective communication, empathy, and mutual respect.
- Emotional Labor: The effort, time, and energy put into managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and providing support within a relationship.
- Disclosure: The act of openly sharing information about one’s other relationships or activities with all partners involved.
- Fluid Bonding: The practice of knowingly choosing to forgo barrier protection for sexual activities with specific partners, typically after discussing and agreeing upon associated risks.
- Power Imbalance: A situation in a relationship where one partner holds more decision-making power or influence than the other, potentially leading to issues of inequality or unfairness.
- Time Management: The process of efficiently allocating time between different partners and commitments in an open or polyamorous relationship.
- Solo Time: A designated period during which an individual in a polyamorous relationship spends time alone to focus on personal interests and well-being.
- Trust: The foundation of any healthy relationship, built on mutual reliability, honesty, and confidence in each other’s intentions and actions.
- Safer Sex Practices: Precautionary measures taken to minimize the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies, including the use of condoms and regular STI testing.
- STI Testing: The process of undergoing medical tests to check for the presence of sexually transmitted infections, an essential practice for maintaining sexual health in open or polyamorous relationships.
- Emotional Support: The provision of understanding, empathy, and compassion to partners in times of emotional distress or vulnerability.
- Negotiation: The process of discussing and reaching mutually satisfactory agreements and compromises within the dynamics of open relationships or polyamory.
- Codependency: A dysfunctional relationship dynamic in which individuals excessively rely on each other for emotional or psychological needs, potentially leading to an unhealthy attachment.
- Polygamy: A practice of having multiple spouses, often associated with specific cultural or religious contexts, distinct from polyamory.
- Monogamy: A form of relationship in which individuals have only one romantic or sexual partner at a time.
- Emotional Attachment: A strong bond or connection formed through shared experiences, trust, and intimacy within a relationship.
- Attachment Theory: A psychological framework that explores how early attachments to caregivers can influence adult relationships and emotional patterns.
- Emotional Intelligence: The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions and the emotions of others, crucial for maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships.
- Intersectionality: The recognition of how various aspects of identity, such as race, gender, and sexuality, intersect and interact, influencing individuals’ experiences within open relationships and polyamory.
- Gender Identity: An individual’s personal sense of their own gender, which may influence the dynamics and structure of relationships, particularly in non-traditional arrangements.
- Sexual Orientation: An enduring pattern of romantic or sexual attraction to individuals of a particular gender, influencing the diversity and dynamics of relationships within open and polyamorous communities.
- Inclusivity: The practice of creating an environment that respects and includes diverse perspectives, identities, and relationship structures within the context of open relationships and polyamory.
- Sex-Positive: A mindset that promotes the affirmation and acceptance of diverse sexual expressions, orientations, and behaviors without judgment or stigma.
- Relationship Escalator: The societal norm that dictates a linear progression in romantic relationships, including milestones like marriage, cohabitation, and monogamy.
- Emotional Boundaries: Personal limits that define how much emotional energy, time, and support individuals are willing to invest in relationships, helping to maintain emotional well-being.
- Sexual Boundaries: Personal limits that outline the type of sexual activities, practices, or behaviors individuals are comfortable engaging in within the context of open relationships or polyamory.
- Monogamish: A term coined by sex columnist Dan Savage, referring to relationships that are mostly monogamous but allow for some flexibility or exploration with outside partners.
- Relationship Orientation: An individual’s preferred relationship structure or style, reflecting their emotional and sexual needs, desires, and comfort levels within open or polyamorous dynamics.
- Relationship Anxieties: Concerns, worries, or fears that individuals experience within open or polyamorous relationships, often related to issues such as jealousy, insecurity, or comparison.
- Solo Dating: The act of an individual in a polyamorous relationship engaging in dating activities independently of their existing partners, fostering personal growth and exploration.
- Intimacy: The deep emotional, spiritual, or physical connection shared between partners, contributing to the overall depth and strength of relationships within open and polyamorous communities.
- Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): A pattern of abusive behaviors used to exert power and control over a partner, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries and respect within all relationship structures.
- Legal Considerations: The legal implications and challenges that may arise in open relationships and polyamorous arrangements, including issues related to marriage, custody, and inheritance rights.
- Social Stigma: Negative stereotypes, prejudices, or discrimination faced by individuals involved in open relationships or polyamory due to societal misconceptions or lack of understanding.
- Relationship Therapy: Professional counseling or therapy aimed at addressing and resolving conflicts, communication issues, or emotional challenges within open or polyamorous relationships.
- Poly-Parenting: A parenting arrangement in which multiple adults share parenting responsibilities and actively participate in raising children within a polyamorous household.
- Relationship Autonomy: The recognition and respect for each individual’s right to make independent decisions and choices within the context of open relationships and polyamory.
- Emotional Availability: The willingness and capacity of individuals to engage in meaningful emotional connections and provide support within open or polyamorous relationships.
- Emotional Monogamy: A type of emotional exclusivity within a relationship, emphasizing a commitment to sharing intimate emotional experiences and connections exclusively with one’s partner.
- Relationship Escapism: A phenomenon in which individuals seek multiple romantic or sexual relationships as a means of avoiding addressing personal emotional issues or challenges.
- Relationship Sustainability: The ability of a relationship to endure and remain fulfilling over time, often requiring ongoing effort, adaptability, and commitment from all parties involved.
- Polyamorous Parenting: A parenting style that embraces the complexities of raising children within a polyamorous household, emphasizing open communication, understanding, and inclusivity.
- Relationship Accountability: The responsibility of individuals to honor commitments, respect agreements, and be transparent within the dynamics of open relationships and polyamory.
- Relationship Resilience: The capacity of a relationship to navigate challenges, conflicts, and external stressors while maintaining its strength, trust, and emotional connection.
- Relationship Expectations: The beliefs, hopes, and assumptions individuals hold regarding the roles, responsibilities, and behaviors of partners within open or polyamorous relationships.
- Relationship Reflection: The practice of introspection and self-assessment within relationships, fostering personal growth, empathy, and a deeper understanding of one’s own needs and boundaries.
- Relationship Education: The promotion of knowledge, awareness, and skills related to fostering healthy, consensual, and fulfilling relationships within the context of open relationships and polyamory.
- Non-Traditional Intimacy: The exploration and acceptance of diverse forms of intimacy beyond conventional romantic or sexual expressions, including emotional intimacy and platonic connections.
- Open Relationship Orientation: An individual’s approach and attitude toward open relationships, reflecting their values, beliefs, and preferences in navigating emotional and sexual connections.
- Polyamorous Norms: The shared beliefs, customs, and behaviors that shape the expectations and dynamics within polyamorous communities and relationships.
- Relationship Trauma: Emotional wounds or distress experienced within relationships, emphasizing the need for empathy, understanding, and healing within the context of open relationships and polyamory.
- Relationship Evolution: The natural progression and growth of relationships over time, involving changes in dynamics, boundaries, and emotional connections within open or polyamorous structures.
- Relationship Diversity: The acknowledgment and celebration of diverse relationship structures, orientations, and dynamics, promoting inclusivity and respect within open and polyamorous communities.
- Relationship Intentionality: The conscious and deliberate effort to establish and maintain meaningful, authentic connections within open relationships and polyamory, emphasizing mutual respect and understanding.
- Relationship Recalibration: The process of redefining, renegotiating, or adjusting relationship agreements, boundaries, and expectations to accommodate changing circumstances or individual needs.
- Relationship Trust-Building: The intentional practice of fostering trust through honesty, consistency, and accountability, laying the foundation for strong, resilient relationships within open or polyamorous dynamics.
- Relationship Philosophy: A set of guiding principles, values, and beliefs that individuals adhere to in navigating the complexities of open relationships and polyamory, emphasizing respect and consent.
- Informed Consent: The crucial agreement and understanding among all parties involved in open or polyamorous relationships, highlighting the importance of transparent communication and mutual agreement.
- Relationship Flexibility: The ability to adapt, compromise, and navigate changes and challenges within open relationships and polyamorous arrangements while maintaining emotional resilience and empathy.
- Relationship Autonomy: The recognition and respect for each individual’s right to make independent decisions and choices within the context of open relationships and polyamory.
- Relationship Balance: The equitable distribution of time, energy, and emotional investment among partners within open or polyamorous relationships, fostering harmony and fulfillment.
- Relationship Empowerment: The promotion of individual agency, self-awareness, and confidence within open relationships and polyamory, encouraging partners to prioritize personal growth and well-being.
- Relationship Authenticity: The practice of being genuine, honest, and true to oneself within the dynamics of open relationships and polyamory, fostering deep emotional connections and trust.
- Relationship Visibility: The acknowledgment and recognition of open relationships and polyamorous identities within social and cultural contexts, advocating for inclusivity and understanding.
- Relationship Boundlessness: The acceptance and exploration of unconventional relationship structures and dynamics beyond traditional societal norms, promoting freedom and inclusivity within open and polyamorous communities.
- Relationship Deconstruction: The process of dismantling societal norms and expectations surrounding monogamy and traditional relationships, fostering critical thinking and reevaluation within open and polyamorous contexts.
- Relationship Empathy: The ability to understand, share, and validate the emotions and experiences of partners within open or polyamorous relationships, promoting mutual support and compassion.
- Relationship Paradigm Shift: The progressive change and redefinition of societal attitudes toward open relationships and polyamory, emphasizing acceptance, respect, and inclusivity.
- Relationship Self-Care: The practice of prioritizing one’s emotional, physical, and mental well-being within open or polyamorous relationships, emphasizing the importance of personal boundaries and nurturing.
- Relationship Inclusivity: The active integration and acceptance of diverse relationship structures, identities, and orientations within open and polyamorous communities, promoting a culture of respect and understanding.
- Relationship Acknowledgment: The validation and recognition of the emotional, psychological, and physical investments individuals make within open or polyamorous relationships, emphasizing the significance of each partner’s contributions.
- Relationship Self-Reflection: The process of introspection and self-assessment within relationships, fostering personal growth, empathy, and a deeper understanding of one’s own needs and boundaries.
- Relationship Consensus: The collective agreement and mutual understanding reached among all partners within open or polyamorous relationships, emphasizing the importance of inclusive decision-making and communication.
- Relationship Intimacy Navigation: The active and conscious management of emotional, physical, and sexual intimacy within open relationships and