A Qualitative Exploration of the Experiences of Disclosing Non-Monogamy

Bibliographic Data

ID8358366
AuthorsJoel Anderson (0000-0003-3649-2003, La Trobe University, corresponding author), Alena Bondarchuk-McLaughlin (0009-0007-0233-1419, La Trobe University), Scarlet Rosa (0009-0007-1360-8727), Karen D Goldschlager (Australian Catholic University), Jordan D X Hinton (0000-0003-0922-5620, La Trobe University)
Year2025
Volume54
Issue4
Pages1481-1495
Publication date2025-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueArchives of Sexual Behavior (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0004-0002 • E-ISSN: 1573-2800
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/s10508-025-03119-0
PMID40128496
OpenAlexW4408846002
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited34

Non-monogamy refers to a set of relationship identities and structures that go against societal norms and expectations of “typical” relationships (i.e., monogamous heteronormative dyadic relationships). As such, non-monogamous individuals often conceal this identity and then need to engage in continuous decision-making processes regarding when and how to disclose, due in part to the structural barriers, stigma, and discrimination faced by this population. This study sought to explore the experiences of the disclosure of consensual (or ethical) non-monogamy and the factors impacting on the decision to disclose across a range of environments. Data on lived experiences were explored by conducting qualitative semi-structured interviews with 32 non-monogamous adults living in Australia. Based on grounded theory, four key themes were identified during the analysis of the data: (1) decisions around how and when to disclosure are complex, (2) responses to disclosure are typically negative, (3) structural barriers typically prevent disclosure, and (4) unless specifically trained, healthcare providers are typically uninformed about non-monogamy. These findings are discussed in relation to providing a base model of disclosure for future research to build upon and to enhance understanding of systemic and healthcare-related issues faced by this population. This research adds to the current understanding of factors impacting disclosure, with possible clinical implications and suggestions for future research discussed

Grounded theory · Health care · Identity (music) · Population · Qualitative research · Self-disclosure · Set (abstract data type) · Sociology · Islamic Finance and Banking Studies · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Marriage and Sexual Relationships · Medicine · Psychology · Social Psychology