Conventional relationship model may not be the 'gold standard' as meta-analysis explores satisfaction levels across the board...

A new study, published in the Journal of Sex Research, suggests that monogamous relationships are no more satisfying than non-monogamous ones.

Researchers analysed data from more than 24,000 people from around the world and found that there was no significant difference in relationship or sexual satisfaction between people in monogamous relationships and those in consensually non-monogamous relationships.

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What is non-monogamy? Non-monogamy is the term used to describe people who want, or have, relationships with multiple people. It's sometimes called 'ethical non-monogamy' (ENM) or 'consensual non-monogamy' (CNM) to differentiate it from infidelity. The difference being that everyone involved is consenting.

"Relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction are key predictors of wellbeing and can substantially contribute to quality of life," reads the study. "Assumptions are often made that relationship and sexual satisfaction are heightened for those in monogamous relationship configurations."

Monogamy is the practice of maintaining a single exclusive emotional and/or sexual relationship, and in modern western culture this is considered the norm, if not the ideal. The research highlights that there is a perception – one the researchers dub the 'monogamy-superiority myth' – that it is the safest environment in which to raise a family, offers more stability, and is considered socially 'normal', and therefore, offers a protective factor against outside judgements. Additionally, monogamous relationships are often perceived as resulting in more frequent and satisfying sex, and in fewer sexual health risks.

But the data tells another story. Across a number of populations, consistent evidence was found to indicate that monogamous and non-monogamous individuals experience equal levels of relationship and sexual satisfaction.

The researchers note that satisfaction levels are equal despite individuals who are in non-monogamous relationships facing higher levels of discrimination and having to consistently navigate disclosure about their relationship status. Researchers surmised that their satisfaction levels may counteract this discrimination, since they likely experience more variety and an increased sense of free will within relationships.

The study looked at multiple dimensions of satisfaction – including intimacy, passion, trust, sexual fulfilment, and overall happiness. Researchers point out that monogamous relationships often suffer when exclusivity is breached, whereas consensual non-monogamous relationships build openness into their foundation, establishing clear boundaries from the beginning. This approach may help prevent the trust violations that risk damaging monogamous couples.

The research doesn't suggest everyone should practice non-monogamy. Instead, it demonstrates that relationship satisfaction depends more on feeling seen, supported, and aligned in values than on exclusivity. The researchers advise that healthcare providers, educators, and policy-makers should acknowledge diverse relationship structures to reduce stigma and improve support for all partnerships – recognising that fulfilling relationships come in many forms.