The Reasons People May Choose an Open Marriage
What do you think about when you hear the term ‘an open marriage’? Perhaps you automatically conjure some lurid chat show where people with unconventional sexual habits are open about their activities while the audience gawks and cringes! Most people tend to settle with one partner, and when someone else is introduced into the equation, the recriminations can cause the relationship to fracture. But more and more individuals are going down this route. Here we’ll examine this phenomenon and explain why those involved in open marriages love them.
- Brand new experience
There are many reasons why couples decide to opt for open relationships. It could be that both parties feel there is more than enough love in their partnership for only two individuals. They might think it is only natural to share their excess emotions with others. Once they reach this decision, the difficult step is where to find willing people to join the club! More and more people seeking open experiences are going online. The explosion in digital dating outlets over the past 10 years has meant there are now outlets covering every topic imaginable, and couples seeking ‘volunteers for a threesome’ is an increasingly popular category. The question then arises, how to access those websites catering to this specific demand? The answer is to check out free dating sites for the married. These outlets will provide reviews of the main sites and apps that would tick these boxes. The couple can then spend time browsing through in-depth reviews, checking out what they say about the available functionality. Once they have decided which particular route to go down, they can follow the direct links to consider registration.
- Polyamorous partners
In some cases, there might be a desire to explore different forms of love and sexual expression with people outside the first relationship. For instance, say one of the people concerned discovered they were having bi-curious feelings or were drawn to someone of the same sex. Rather than breaking up the relationship, there would be an option for this person to try out a relationship with someone of the appropriate gender. Perhaps a more common type of polyamorous choice is down to the fact that there can sometimes be a mismatch in libido levels within a couple. One person could have a much higher sex drive, leading to frustration when their partner is ready to match this enthusiasm.
- Total openness
Introducing polyamorous partners into relationships that have traditionally been monogamous can seem like a major step. But this is why it is important to agree on what is about to unfold. There is nowhere where you can consult a manual about open marriages. But there are certain codes of conduct covering this type of activity. The most crucial aspect of people looking for open arrangements is consent.
Everyone involved in this activity must be aware of the limitations and the communication channels that exist for discussing the situation. These need to be maintained at all times; at the moment anyone is having any misgivings, issues should be raised immediately. Continuing from that sense of touching base about the open arrangement, the keyword to keep in mind is ‘openness.’ Whether you are communicating with your original partner or the third person in the triangle, this should never be done in secrecy. Whenever you are passing texts or messages to someone or are receiving phone calls, be honest about what has been discussed. By establishing trust, you can avoid the prospect of people considering they are being cheated on.
- Fair treatment
Another point to keep in mind is that you don’t need to behave any differently with those who aren’t necessarily your ‘number one.’ This may be an open arrangement as far as you’re concerned, but the other person you’re involved with won’t be impressed by being treated as a ‘bit on the side.’ Think of ways of making them feel just as appreciated. When it comes to special occasions, such as a birthday, give some thought to choosing a gift that demonstrates how you feel about them.
Open marriages might once have raised an eyebrow or two. But the development of digital dating has opened up a whole new universe of possibilities for singles. You might be surprised to know that surveys have revealed that almost 20% of today’s under-30s have admitted to having sexual partners outside their relationship, with the full knowledge of their partner. Or it might not surprise you all that much. Perhaps you and your significant other are already up for a spot of swinging! As long as you follow the guidance we have outlined, you can avoid ill feelings and look forward to a prosperous time together – all three of you.