What does it mean to have an open relationship?

When both members of a couple agree on the desire to have an open relationshipthey admit that they love and care for each other but, on the other hand, they come to the agreement of wanting see other people and experiment sexually with them. In general, those involved in an open relationship consider that they love each other passionately but that, at the same time, they can have sexual relations with people other than their partner, for whom they will not have any emotional bond and which will not harm their love relationship.

The definition that we have explained in the previous section can be defined as a primary/secondary relationship model. That is, there is a loving relationship between two people (primary relationship) and the two members of the couple can have, outside of this relationship, one or more secondary relationships, which do not have the same importance and are not as committed as the primary one.

In the model called multiple partners or polyfidelityall couples have come to be considered as part of the primary relationship and are valued as equal participants. This could occur in a man who has relationships with several women at the same time, or conversely, a woman who has relationships with several men; and even through a combination of both sexes.

In the model of multiple non-primary relationships, the concepts of fidelity or commitment are completely eliminated. They have various love relationships, but they still consider themselves as single people without any type of commitment. This means that for that person all possible partners are equal, that none will have a greater value than another, nor a greater degree of commitment. Normally, when asked, those who have this type of open relationship usually respond that they are alone or that they have a special friend.

Managing a liberal relationship is not easy and, obviously, not everyone can accept this type of relationship. The most important thing is that if your partner intends to have a relationship of this type, first examine the reasons he or she gives you. In the event that one of the two does not want to continue with the relationship, it is best to end it and move forward each on their own path.

In the event that you both agree, it is essential discuss this issue in great detail and establish all kinds of guidelines to be clear about how far you can and want to go when having several relationships at the same time.

Being honest and trusting each other is essential to being able to manage an open relationship; Always remember that the most important thing is that in this type of relationship both members of the couple agree and enjoy them. Avoid agreeing to have an open relationship with your partner simply to please them, as you will most likely end up suffering too much.

If you want to read more articles similar to What does it mean to have an open relationship?we recommend that you enter our Sentimental Relationships category.