The word "polyamory" comes from the Greek prefix poli-, meaning "many", and Latin amor, meaning "love". Polyamory refers to the practice of being involved romantically or sexually with more than one person at the same time. This is done with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. It can involve various degrees of emotional closeness and physical intimacy, including but not limited to dating, marriage, and cohabitation. Some people who choose this lifestyle may have multiple partners at once, while others may switch between different partners over time. Others still may pursue polyamory exclusively online through digital spaces such as social media platforms, forums, and chat rooms.
Polyamorous individuals report a wide range of psychological motivations behind their choice. These include freedom of expression, exploration of sexuality and identity, increased self-awareness, satisfaction of relational needs, and fulfillment of personal desires. They also often cite the benefits of open communication, mutual respect, and consensual non-monogamy.
One common reason for choosing polyamory is the desire for greater autonomy in relationships. Many polyamorists find that they are happier when they are able to explore and express themselves freely without limits imposed by society's expectations. By having multiple romantic and/or sexual partners, they feel freer to be true to themselves and explore their own unique desires and needs. This can lead to greater personal growth and self-discovery.
Another motivation for polyamory is the desire for increased sexual variety. Many individuals enjoy engaging in multiple concurrent relationships because it allows them to experience new and varied forms of eroticism. This can lead to a deeper understanding of one's sexuality and preferences, as well as the ability to experiment with new techniques and dynamics. Polyamory can also provide opportunities for learning about other cultures, experiences, and ways of life, which can enhance overall quality of life.
For some people, polyamory offers the opportunity to fulfill relational needs that would otherwise go unmet.
Someone who has a strong need for emotional intimacy may seek out multiple partners who can provide different levels of closeness and support. Someone who enjoys intense physical pleasure may pursue multiple partners who offer unique sensory experiences. Others simply want more time spent with their partners, and so choose polyamorous arrangements where everyone gets an equal amount of attention.
Many polyamorous individuals report that they pursue this lifestyle to satisfy their own individual desires and wants. They do not necessarily see these desires as requiring justification or explanation to others. Instead, they view polyamory as a valid expression of their inner truth and a way to live authentically. By embracing their own desires and needs, they find greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
What are the psychological motivations behind choosing polyamorous lifestyles?
Many people who choose polyamory do so for various reasons that include personal growth, exploration of sexuality and gender identity, avoiding feelings of jealousy or possessiveness within monogamous relationships, challenging social norms, and enhancing intimacy with multiple partners. They may also be seeking emotional fulfillment through different types of connections with multiple individuals.