Attitudes toward consensual non-monogamy predicted by sociosexual behavior and avoidant attachment

Abstract

Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) relationships have increased in recent years. CNM is likely related to sociosexual behavior and attachment yet research is limited on these predictors and the interactions between them. Participants were 140 general population adults recruited via social media. Participants completed the Experience in Close Relationships Inventory, Sociosexual Orientation Inventory, Attitudes toward CNM scale and Willingness to Engage in CNM scale. Moderation analysis was conducted using Hayes’ SPSS Process software. It was found that sociosexual behavior predicted attitudes toward CNM and this was moderated by avoidant attachment. This suggests that when individuals have low or moderate levels of avoidant attachment (i.e., are securely attached) then the relationship between sociosexual behavior and attitudes toward CNM is strengthened. It was also found that sociosexual behavior predicted willingness to engage in CNM, but anxious attachment did not moderate this relationship. Discussion includes whether secure attachment allows individuals to engage in CNM.