Until recently, consensual non-monogamy has been one type of relationship that was often overlooked in both popular culture and scientific research - until now. 

Newest Research Model

New findings from Kinsey, a university that has always been at the forefront on gender and sexuality, show that over 20% of people surveyed have had open sexual relationships in their lifetimes. That is, these open relationships feature an agreed-upon and sexually non-exclusive component [1].

Building upon previous research that was widely unknown about who was most likely to engage in consensual non-monogamy, researchers at Kinsey found that rates of people in consensual non-monogamous relationship were the same across demographic categories. Where demographics are concerned, this included areas like age, race, religion, political affiliation, and levels of education or income. This suggests that a larger and more diverse segment of Americans have had consensual non-monogamous relationships than was previously known.

The Likelihood of Consensual Non-Monogamous Relationships

Despite this larger segment taking part in consensual non-monogamous relationships, it turns out that men were more likely to have confirmed being involved in this type of relationship. There was also evidence that those who identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual were also more likely to have engaged in a type of consensual non-monogamy. 

Counseling Expectations

What this means for our clients is that our therapists at The Relationship Center of Colorado understand that each person is unique and their interpretation of monogamy personally and within their relationships is also unique. We provide a safe environment of understanding and without judgement so that our clients can achieve a higher level of satisfaction in their lives. 

Are you searching for an accepting, therapeutic atmosphere? 

[1] M. L. Haupert, Amanda N. Gesselman, Amy C. Moors, Helen E. Fisher & Justin R. Garcia (2017). Prevalence of Experiences With Consensual Nonmonogamous Relationships: Findings From Two National Samples of Single Americans, Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, Vol. 43, Iss. 5.