Human relationships are as varied as the individuals who form them. While monogamy – being in a committed relationship with one person – is a common model, many people find fulfilment in alternative structures that better align with their values, desires, and lifestyles.

Understanding these diverse relationship types can foster greater empathy, communication, and self-awareness.

Monogamy

A relationship where two individuals agree to be romantically and sexually exclusive with each other.

Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM)

An umbrella term for relationships where individuals engage in multiple consensual romantic or sexual relationships. Key types include:

• Polyamory: Having multiple romantic relationships simultaneously, with the knowledge and consent of all involved.
• Hierarchical Polyamory: Polyamorous relationships where partners are ranked (e.g., primary, secondary), often with a primary couple at the core.
• Non-Hierarchical Polyamory: All relationships are considered equal, without ranking partners.
• Solo Polyamory: Individuals maintain multiple relationships but prioritise autonomy and do not seek a primary partnership.
• Polyfidelity: A closed group of three or more individuals who are romantically and sexually exclusive with each other.
• Open Relationships: Partners agree that they may have sexual relationships outside their primary relationship.
• Swinging: Couples engage in sexual activities with others, often in a social setting.
• Relationship Anarchy: Rejecting traditional relationship norms and hierarchies, emphasising autonomy and individual agreements.
• Monogamish: Primarily monogamous relationships that allow for occasional sexual experiences outside the partnership.
• Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell: Partners permit outside sexual relationships but prefer not to discuss the details.
• Kitchen Table Polyamory: A form of polyamory where all partners and metamours (partners of one’s partner) are comfortable interacting together.
• Parallel Polyamory: Partners are aware of each other’s relationships but do not interact with metamours.
• Triads/throuple and Quads: Relationships involving three (triad/throuple) or four (quad) individuals, where all are romantically or sexually connected.
• Vee Relationships: One person is romantically involved with two others who are not involved with each other.

Navigating Relationship Choices

Choosing a relationship structure is a personal decision that should be based on self-awareness, open communication, and mutual consent. It’s essential to consider:

• Personal values and desires: What aligns with your beliefs and what you seek in relationships.
• Communication skills: The ability to discuss needs, boundaries, and feelings openly.
• Time and energy: Managing multiple relationships requires time, emotional energy, and organisation.
• Jealousy and insecurity: Recognising and addressing feelings that may arise.
• Community and support: Having access to resources and communities that understand and support your relationship choices.

Final Thoughts

Relationships are deeply personal and can take many forms. Whether you find fulfilment in monogamy, polyamory, or another structure, the key is to engage in relationships that are consensual, communicative, and aligned with your values.

For more in-depth information on these relationship types, you can refer to Freddie’s guide on 14 open relationship types.

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. For personalized support, consider consulting a qualified professional.

Source(s): https://www.gofreddie.com/magazine/relationships-101-14-open-relationship-types