Polygamy is an ancient practice that has been adopted by different cultures and religions throughout history. In Mormon communities, polygamy is practiced to fulfill religious doctrines related to marriage and family life.
This practice can have significant implications for sexual satisfaction, emotional intimacy, relational negotiation, and psychological resilience. This article will explore the effects of polygamous relationships on these factors and how they are justified within Mormon religious doctrine.
Sexual Satisfaction
One of the most obvious effects of polygamy is its impact on sexual satisfaction. Polygamous marriages involve multiple partners engaging in sexual relations with each other. While some couples may find this arrangement beneficial for their sex lives, others may struggle to maintain healthy sexual relationships due to competition between spouses.
Polygamy can lead to feelings of jealousy or possessiveness, which can harm the physical and emotional well-being of all parties involved.
Emotional Intimacy
The emotional bond between two individuals is crucial for a successful relationship. In monogamous relationships, this connection is formed through shared experiences, trust, and communication.
In polygamous relationships, emotional intimacy can be more challenging to achieve because of the added complexity of managing multiple relationships simultaneously. It requires more effort from each partner to connect emotionally and build strong bonds with one another.
Relational Negotiation
Polygamous relationships require constant relational negotiation between all partners involved. Each party must communicate effectively and respectfully to ensure that everyone's needs are met while also balancing time and attention among multiple relationships. This can be particularly difficult in cases where there are significant age differences or power imbalances between partners.
Psychological Resilience
Polygamy can have an impact on psychological resilience by increasing stress levels and anxiety. Juggling multiple relationships can be taxing on mental health, leading to burnout and depression.
The lack of social support outside of the marriage can make it challenging for individuals to cope with life events such as job loss or illness.
Doctrinal Justification
Despite these challenges, Mormon doctrine provides justification for polygamy based on scripture and spiritual beliefs. The Bible teaches that men should have multiple wives to multiply their family lineage and honor God's commandment to "be fruitful and multiply."
Some believe that polygamy allows women to form stronger marriages due to the additional support provided by a husband who has other wives. These doctrines create a cultural environment in which polygamy is seen as a desirable practice within religious communities.
How does polygamy in Mormon settlements influence sexual satisfaction, emotional intimacy, relational negotiation, and psychological resilience, and how are these practices justified within religious doctrine?
Polygamous relationships have been practiced by Mormons since Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), introduced it as part of their religious teachings in 1832. In such marriages, one man is married to multiple women who live together with him and his family.