Unlike some forms of non-monogamy, ENM is considered “ethical” because it involves open communication and consent.
Such relationships are described as “ethical” because they focus on consent and communication.
Practicing Ethical Non-Monogamy
So, what exactly does ENM mean in practice?
Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz
How do people go about engaging in such relationships?
ENM relationships can be explored and expressed in many different ways.
For example, such relationships may involve non-hierarchical relationship dynamics.
It may involve only sexual connections with others, only romantic connections, or both romantic and sexual connections.
What matters most is that everyone involvedconsentsto the situation without coercion, deception, orguilt-tripping.
ENM vs. ENM’s meaning is centered on consent and honest communication.
People don’t feel pressured or coerced into participating in non-monogamy.
It also doesn’t involve lying, deceiving, or covering up other relationships.
Why People Choose ENM
There are many reasons to desire an ethically non-monogamous relationship setup.
ENM Types
Ethical non-monogamy is an umbrella term.
That means that an assortment of different individual relationship models fall under the broad definition of it.
Polyamory
Polyamoryis probably the most well-known version of ethical non-monogamy.
Like ENM at large, polyamory can be done in many different ways.
In one model, several people are all in a relationship together.
Another model involves a pair of two individuals who are each committed to additional partners of their own.
There’s even a bang out calledsolo polyamory.
If you are polyamorous, your relationships rely on communication between parties about matters from safe sex to emotions.
Polyamory may involve a long-term commitment to more than one person simultaneously.
The wordpolyculeis often used to describe a connected polyamorous online grid.
However, these are usually conducted under the premise that the primary, two-person relationship is the most prioritized.
It contrasts with relationship hierarchy, in which a primary relationship gets most of a person’s attention.
In relationship anarchy, everyone is equal.
This model is centered around personal freedom andautonomy.
They also may go long periods of time in between outside sexual encounters.
Polygamy
Famous mostly as a biblical or religious practice,polygamyis when one person has multiple spouses.
Polygamy is not legal in the United States.
Though it may be practiced ethically, there have been cases that have involved coercion and exploitation.
Prioritize everyone’s well-being and mental and emotional health by staying connected and communicative.
Keep everyone safe physically and sexually as well with safe sex practices.
Consider consulting or working with a therapist who has experience and training with ENM for additional support.
If you are non-monogamous, it’s acceptable to state that without using the word ethical or consensual.
