Ethical Non-Monogamy with Dr. Liz Powell

Welcome back to my playground, my Lexual fiends and friends….

As heard in our “2019 in Review: Best of Swinging, Hotwifing and Open Relationships” Podcast, Dr. Liz Powell helped clear the air when it comes to the multiple labels and angles that an ethically non-monogamous relationship may take.

With an abundance of knowledge, Liz dove deep into these labels to help us better understand ourselves and others!

The Non-Monogamous Umbrella

Non-Monogamous: An umbrella term for any relationship that is non-monogamous.

Swingers: Approaching non-monogamy as a couple, with subjective flexibility- but still couples-focused. 

Monogamish: Usually socially and emotionally monogamous, but sexually non-monogamous. This can range from flirting to sexual interaction; it’s acknowledged by the couple that long-term monogamy isn’t realistic. 

Polyamory: Multiple, loving, and fully consenting relationships.

Hierarchical Polyamory: A polyamorous setup with a primary (or “nesting”) partner who holds the most importance, followed by secondary or tertiary partners. Primary partners are usually ones whom you would bear children with, share a home, or share finances. 

Egalitarian Polyamory: No strict levels or hierarchy between partners; no enforced power structure. You have personal preferences between your partners. 

Solo Polyamory: Polyamory practiced at the individual unit. A great way to claim autonomy, and not declare autonomy over someone else. 

Relationship Anarchy: A theoretical/ethical approach that can happen with another relationship style. “Each relationship finds its own level.” For example, you don’t need to differentiate between friends and lovers, etc. There isn’t necessarily a system that ties you down to labels!

Dr. Liz Powell

How do we go from monogamous thinking to non-monogamous ways? Dr. Liz Powell explores these topics in her book, “Building Open Relationships: Your Hands on Guide to Swinging, Polyamory, and Beyond!”.

Do you identify with any of the labels above? How do you feel about labels? Share with me in the comments below!