Modern relationships have changed and not every marriage or partnership consists of a man and a woman.  There are more people who practice non-monogamous relationships and find fulfillment with more than one partner.  These types of relationships are referred to as polyamorous.  You have probably heard a great deal of misinformation surrounding poly relationships.  Let’s set the record straight and dispel the myths surrounding poly dating.

There is No Cheating in Poly

That is not the case at all.  Just because you are in a poly relationship that doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want without consequences, there are still usually agreements to follow.  Both you and your partner can decide things like boundaries together and any potential partners that may be off limits.  Compromise and communication are key just like in any relationship.

Jealousy Doesn’t Exist in Poly

Jealousy happens everywhere and it isn’t going to disappear in an open relationship.  On the other hand most people in poly relationships address jealousy straight on and commit to working through it.  Instead of feeling jealous that your partner loves other people as well they choose to feel happy that their partner is happy.  Jealousy still happens but rather than letting the emotion damage the relationships many people choose to look for the root cause of the jealousy and address it.  Here are some tips on addressing jealousy in poly relationships.

Poly is All About Sex

This is probably the most common misconception out there and it couldn’t be more wrong.  While sex is important in any relationship including poly it is not the be all and end all of poly relationships.  Poly can take a lot of different forms from partners free to have sexual relationships with other people, what you would call an “open marriage” to three or more people in the primary relationship.  Poly gives everyone involved the ability to structure the relationship however they want.

Poly People are Edgy

Poly people come from all walks of life and you probably already know someone who practices poly or has an open marriage and you don’t realize it.  Poly people tend to be discrete when it comes to their relationships because of the stigma attached.  They guard their personal lives because it can cost them standing in the community or affect their employment.  You would be surprised at how common poly is.

Poly relationships and dating are no more or no less complicated than any other relationship.  It’s a struggle to find someone that fits into your life no matter what type of relationship you’re looking for.