Do Open Relationships Work?

From a serial monogamous / Therapist who grew up in the 80's.

First, an open relationship, also known as a non-exclusive relationship, is an intimate relationship that is sexually non-monogamous. The term may refer to polyamory, but generally indicates a relationship where there is a primary emotional and intimate relationship between two partners, who agree to at least the possibility of intimacy with other people.

A polyamorous relationship means having multiple romantic partners at the same time, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved.

In a nutshell, an open relationship means you still have one primary partner but both can have other sexual partners. Polyamory means you have multiple relationships that are both emotional as well as sexual. There is no primary.

The terms both fall under the heading of “ethical nonmonogamy,” but they are not synonymous. You can combine them or do one without the other.

Okay now,

Second, I have not practiced either. I have only been in monogamous relationships my entire life. I guess you can say I am a serial monogamous, which is probably why this topic brings me instant anxiety.