A poly relationship, often referred to as polyamory, is a type of consensual non-monogamous relationship where people engage in multiple romantic or intimate relationships simultaneously, with the full consent and knowledge of everyone involved. Key elements of a poly relationship include:
- At least three people involved.
- Some or all members may have sexual and/or emotional connections with each other or with multiple partners.
- Everyone is aware of the relationships and has consented to them.
- Relationships can involve different configurations, such as a "vee" where one person has two separate partners, or more interconnected networks called "polycule" or "poly families."
- These relationships focus on love, connection, and communication rather than just sexual variety.
- Poly relationships commonly emphasize values like honesty, equality, integrity, and consent.
- A feeling called "compersion" (joy in seeing one's partner happy with others) is important and contrasts with jealousy seen in monogamous relationships.
There are different types of poly relationships including hierarchical (where partners have different priorities), non-hierarchical (all partners are equal), and solo-poly (individuals who engage in multiple relationships but do not prioritize coupling). Polyamory differs from polygamy in that all partners may have multiple connections rather than one individual having multiple exclusive partners.
