Relationship quality among young gay and bisexual men in consensual nonmonogamous relationships

Abstract

Consensual nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships (e.g., open relationships) are common among adult gay and bisexual men, and thus, younger gay and bisexual men may also engage in consensual nonmonogamy. Yet little is known about CNM relationships among young gay and bisexual men. This is problematic, as nonmonogamy may have important implications for relationship health, which is linked to individual mental and physical health. The present study explored dimensions of relationship quality among a sample of ( n = 20) young gay and bisexual men in CNM relationships. Participants were recruited, along with their primary partners, from an ongoing cohort study of young men who have sex with men in New York City. Participants completed semistructured interviews that included questions about relationship quality. A modified version of the consensual qualitative research method was used to analyze the data. Participants’ responses were also analyzed at the dyad level to assess agreement between partners on dimensions of relationship quality. Among the men interviewed, most reported being satisfied with their relationship with their primary partner and with nonmonogamy more generally. Many participants identified improvements in their overall relationship, communication, and sex life as a result of nonmonogamy. These findings suggest that CNM relationships are viable relationship structures for some young gay and bisexual men. Consistent with these findings, mental health practitioners should help young gay and bisexual men in CNM relationships to bolster their communication and conflict resolution skills and should avoid pathologizing nonmonogamy. Also, medical providers and HIV/sexually transmitted infections (STI) prevention programs may benefit from increased competence regarding consensual nonmonogamy and should tailor their services to the unique needs of young gay and bisexual men in CNM relationships.