Polyamory

Polyamory

A demonstrator (left) with a polyamorous pride flag in Malmö, Sweden, August 2017
Parent category	Non-monogamy
Subcategories	Polyfidelity Solo poly
Other terms
Associated terms	Relationship anarchy Ethical non-monogamy Ambiamory Free love

Part of a series on
Non-monogamy and polyamory
Relationships Casual dating Ethical non-monogamy Group marriage Ménage à trois Open relationship Marriage
Sexual practices Casual sex Cuckold / Cuckquean Troilism Extramarital sex Gang bang Group sex Orgy Swinging Threesome Unicorn hunting
Terms and values Ambiamory Hookup culture New relationship energy Primary and secondary Polyfidelity Relationship anarchy
Related topics Free love Free union Polygamy Sologamy
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Polyamory (from Ancient Greek πολύς (polús) 'many' and Latin amor 'love') is the practice of, or the desire for, romantic relationships with more than one partner at the same time, with the informed consent of all partners involved. Some people who identify as polyamorous believe in consensual non-monogamy with a conscious management of jealousy and reject the view that sexual and relational exclusivity (monogamy) are prerequisite for deep, committed, long-term, loving relationships.^[1] Others prefer to restrict their sexual activity to only members of the group, a closed polyamorous relationship that is usually referred to as polyfidelity.^[2][3]

Polyamory has come to be an umbrella term for various forms of non-monogamous, multi-partner relationships, or non-exclusive sexual or romantic relationships.^[4][5][6] Its usage reflects the choices and philosophies of the individuals involved, but with recurring themes or values, such as love, intimacy, honesty, integrity, equality, communication, and commitment.^[7][8] It can often be distinguished from some other forms of ethical non-monogamy in that the relationships involved are loving intimate relationships, as opposed to purely sexual relationships.^[9]

The term polyamory was coined in 1990 and officially defined by 1999. It is not typically considered part of the LGBTQ umbrella. Courts and cities in Canada and the U.S. are increasingly recognizing polyamorous families, granting legal parentage to multiple adults and extending protections to multi-partner relationships. While still uncommon, about 4% of people practice polyamory, and up to 17% are open to it. While mainstream Christianity and Judaism generally reject polyamory, some religious groups, including the Oneida Community, certain rabbis and Jewish communities, LaVeyan Satanists, and Unitarian Universalists, have accepted or supported polyamorous relationships. In clinical settings, therapists are encouraged to recognize diverse relationship structures such as polyamory, address biases toward monogamy, and utilize specialized resources to support polyamorous clients.

From the 1970s onward, polyamory has been depicted in various media, including Isaac Asimov’s works, DC Comics’ Starfire, The Wheel of Time series, Futurama, and numerous 21st-century television shows and novels. Polyamory-related observances include Metamour Day on February 28, Polyamory Pride Day during Pride Month, International Solo Polyamory Day on September 24, and Polyamory Day on November 23, with polyamory groups often participating in pride parades. Worldwide nonprofits like Loving More and others advocate for polyamory rights, acceptance, and education. Critics argue that polyamory is not inherently radical, often reflects privilege, and may have negative social impacts. Notable individuals publicly identifying as polyamorous include authors Dossie Easton, Janet Hardy, and Laurell K. Hamilton; filmmaker Terisa Greenan; activist Brenda Howard; and musician Willow Smith.