Jealousy is an emotional response that can occur when someone feels threatened by another person's relationship, or perceives that their partner is giving more attention to someone else than them. In open or polyamorous relationships, where multiple partners are involved, jealousy can arise due to feelings of insecurity, possessiveness, or fear of being left out.
Researchers have found that there are also cognitive and emotional mechanisms at play that may contribute to jealousy in these types of relationships.
One factor that can influence jealousy in an open relationship is attachment style. Attachment theory posits that humans form secure or insecure attachments to others based on their early experiences of caregiving. Individuals who experienced consistent, positive caregiving tend to develop a secure attachment style, while those who experienced unpredictable or inconsistent caregiving tend to develop insecure attachment styles. These individuals may be more prone to anxiety or avoidance in future relationships, which can lead to increased jealousy in an open or polyamorous relationship.
Another factor is self-esteem. Individuals with high self-esteem are less likely to feel threatened by their partner's involvement with other people, as they believe themselves to be worthy of love and attention. On the other hand, individuals with low self-esteem may experience greater insecurities and jealousy in an open relationship, as they may feel that their partner would prefer someone else over them.
Emotions also play a role in jealousy. When individuals feel threatened, they may experience negative emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear. These emotions can trigger physiological responses such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as stress or panic attacks. This can make it difficult for individuals to process information rationally, leading to irrational thoughts and behaviors.
To manage jealousy in an open or polyamorous relationship, individuals can work on developing healthier attitudes towards their own worthiness and confidence. They can also practice mindfulness and acceptance of their partner's choices, rather than trying to control their behavior. Communication and transparency between partners can help build trust and reduce feelings of insecurity.
What cognitive and emotional mechanisms underlie jealousy in open or polyamorous relationships?
Jealousy is an emotion that arises when a perceived threat of abandonment or loss occurs. In open or polyamorous relationships, it may occur as a result of feelings of insecurity about the partners' commitments and loyalty to each other. This can be exacerbated by communication difficulties, power imbalances, trust issues, and lack of understanding of boundaries.