439 - Thematic Session. Consensual Non-Monogamies

Session Submission Type: Invited Session

Abstract

In this session we will explore consensual non-monogamies, a range of relationship styles that allow their participants to construct relationships with varied degrees of extra-dyadic romantic and/or sexual interaction. Dr. Teri Conley will critically examine monogamy as “the” ideal relationship configuration, considering how effective monogamy is in structuring family benefits, sexual benefits, relationship satisfaction, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections. Dr. Mimi Schippers will discuss the feminist and queer implications of nonmonogamy and explain the social and political implications of compulsory monogamy and polyamory. Dr. Elisabeth Sheff will provide an overview of the findings of her 15-year study of polyamororous families with children. Pioneers in their field, these researchers have established a solid theoretical and empirical base of information about consensual non-monogamies. Conley’s work on the transmission of sexually transmitted infections reveals that not all forms of non-monogamy are equal, and consensual nonmonogamists have lower rates of transmission and higher rates of barrier use than do cheaters. Schippers’s book Polyqueer: Compulsory Monogamy and the Queer Potential of Plural Sexualities (2015) establishes a theoretical framework for identifying how compulsory monogamy reinforces hetero-masculine dominance and the potential for non-monogamies to undermine race, class, and gender inequality. Sheff’s books look at polyamorous families, with The Polyamorists Next Door: Inside Multiple-Partner Relationships and Families (2014) providing a summary of her 15 year study of polyamorous families with children and Stories from the Polycule: Real life in Polyamorous Families (2015) compiling polyamorists’ writings in an edited anthology.

Sub Unit

• Thematic Sessions

Session Organizer

• Elisabeth Sheff, Sheff Consulting Group

Presider

• Corie Hammers, Macalester College

Individual Presentations

• Is Monogamy Optimal? Reconsidering Assumptions about the Primacy of Monogamy in Relationship Processes - Terri Conley, University of Michigan

• Polyqueer Sexualities: A Feminist and Queer Call for a Sociology of Polyamory - Mimi Schippers, Tulane University

• Polyamorous Families with Children - Elisabeth Sheff, Sheff Consulting Group

Discussant

• Corie Hammers, Macalester College