Introduction to Ethical Non-Monogamy
Explore the fundamentals of ethical non-monogamy, different relationship structures, and determine if it's right for you.
Course Content
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Welcome to Introduction to Ethical Non-Monogamy
Select a lesson from the sidebar to begin learning.
Category
Prerequisites
- •communication foundations
- •understanding consent
What You'll Learn
- Understand what ethical non-monogamy is and isn't
- Learn about different types of non-monogamous relationships
- Assess whether non-monogamy is right for you
- Build foundational communication skills before opening a relationship
Recommended Resources
The Ethical Slut
by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton
A classic guide to non-monogamy.
Opening Up
by Tristan Taormino
A guide to creating and sustaining open relationships.
Polysecure
by Jessica Fern
Attachment theory and non-monogamy.
More Than Two
Online resource about polyamory and non-monogamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will opening my relationship save it?
No. In fact, opening a struggling relationship usually ends it. ENM amplifies existing problems. If you want to explore non-monogamy, do it from a place of strength, not desperation.
How much detail should we share about outside encounters?
There's no right answer—only what works for you. Options range from don't ask, don't tell to full disclosure. Discuss explicitly what level of detail you both want. Be honest about your needs and don't agree to something you're not comfortable with.
Can we close the relationship if ENM doesn't work for us?
Absolutely. ENM is not a one-way door. You're allowed to try it and decide it's not for you. However, closing the relationship can be as complex as opening it. You'll need to end other connections with care and possibly deal with fallout. Discuss this possibility before opening up.