Fox on Sex: 'Big Love:' The Different Kinds of Polyamory

With so much talk about cheating, sex addiction and horny housewife shows, I've been getting a lot of mail asking questions that span from inane to fantastic..

How does polyamory (having multiple intimate relationships simultaneously, with full consent) differ from swinging? Are swingers nudists? (Not necessarily, though I am sure some nudists might swing). Are bondage and S&M essential parts of swinging? (Nope, not essential). And then there are the numerous e-mails I get that about “cuckolding” (men who like watching their wives having sex, which might have an undercurrent of psychological humiliation to it)..

The topic that reoccurs is the amount of communication that is needed. Couples in “alternative” or “open” relationships have to express themselves very precisely about their comfort levels, boundaries and desires. Divorce once had terrible stigma attached to it, so what do you think the future is for “open” or alternative lifestyles?.

Some basic definitions:.

Dr. Belisa Vranich is a psychologist and sex expert. She is the author of three books, including her latest "Get a Grip: Your Two-Week Mental Makeover," which is in stores now. Do you have a "Dear Doc" question? E-mail Dr. Vranich at DrBelisa@gmail.com and check out her Web site at www.drbelisa.com..

See Next Story in Health.

Print

Item Resource