Open relationship? This is how you deal with criticism

• By Naughty Boy

Open relationships are built upon trust, honesty, and respect. Clear communication counters criticism, fostering emotional bonds and personal freedom.

Open relationship? How do you deal with criticism from friends and coworkers?

Monogamy is the norm for many people worldwide, but alternative relationship models are becoming increasingly important. Research indicates that approximately 85% of the global population is found within monogamous relationships, and 15% use other models like open relationships. The non-monogamous relationships are on the rise and now being adopted, especially in Western societies. Such models promote greater openness and honesty in relationships. They can provide new impetus and strengthen bonds. But how do you deal with criticism on this topic? This article provides some ideas.

Monogamy is becoming increasingly relaxed

Millions of people worldwide live in open relationships or other non-monogamous models. In Western countries such as the US and Europe, this practice is becoming increasingly normalised. According to studies, about 4-5% of couples in the US actively lead open relationships. Regions such as South America and Africa show a higher tolerance for polygamous and non-traditional relationships. Alternative relationship models are particularly widespread in urban centres. Cultural factors play a significant role in the acceptance of these models.

One of the most interesting aspects is that most people not only fantasize about having access to high-quality porn content, for example, but also act upon these fantasies as well. The desire to become freer and more original encourages many couples to push against traditional models for relationships and seek out different types of relationships. Sites and online services offer a space to test out these concepts in a safe and anonymous manner. Sexdating as a metonym for an open lifestyle reflects how new technologies make new experiences and interactions accessible. Such sites render people able to exchange wishes and needs with others of the same kind without compromising the relationship with one's own partner. 

Criticism from others and how to deal with it

Friends and acquaintances will not have much patience for non-monogamous relationship structures. Such reactions normally have their origins in societal expectations and social customs. One can de-mystify prejudices through open communication. It is nothing wrong with engaging your partner in the discussion in order to remain open.

People often react sceptically when new concepts contradict their beliefs. It helps to emphasise the advantages of open relationships. Honesty and respect form the basis for such partnerships. When critics recognise that both partners have chosen this form consensually, their rejection often diminishes. Arguments based on trust and mutual consent are convincing.

Emphasise emotional closeness

Open relationships do not mean a loss of closeness, but often the opposite. Studies show that 70% of couples in open relationships feel a stronger emotional bond. The exchange of feelings remains central, while physical freedom is added. Real-life examples illustrate this. Couples report how they avoid conflicts by making clear agreements.

Psychological perspectives and scientific findings

Psychologists emphasise that there are many advantages to openness in relationships. According to a study by the University of Michigan, people in open relationships report high levels of satisfaction and trust. In contrast, surprisingly, those kinds of relationships have less jealousy symptoms than traditional monogamous ones. Studies reveal open relationships are grounded in good communication and mutual understanding between the two.

Research conducted at the University of Guelph also concluded that individuals in open relationships are as psychologically and sexually happy as their monogamous peers. The study revolved around the fact that open relationships have a higher chance of success with more profound communication and clearly defined boundaries, therefore reducing insecurity.

Empirical evidence of the benefits

Data from the US confirms the positive aspects of non-monogamous models. It has been found in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships that individuals who live in open relationships are just as satisfied and attached as monogamous couples. Explicit contracts and mutual trust were key indicators of the success of such a relationship, stated the study.