Consensually Non-monogamous Relationships Research Articles

Examining the Role of Mononormative Beliefs, Stigma, and Internalized Consensual Non-Monogamy Negativity for Dehumanization.

Interest in consensually non-monogamous (CNM) relationships has been increasing in the general population in recent years. However, given the cultural dominance of monogamy and the normative expectations often imposed through socialization (i.e., mononormativity), people in CNM relationships may experience negativity, which can become internalized and harm their individual and relationship health. The present study investigated if mononormativity beliefs and CNM relationship stigma were associated with more dehumanization and if internalized CNM negativity was an underlying mechanism for these associations. Results showed that participants who endorsed more mononormative beliefs and CNM relationship stigma also reported more internalized CNM negativity. In turn, participants who experienced more internalized CNM negativity attributed more negative (vs. positive) emotions to themselves and treated their partners as more immature, unrefined, exploitable, and emotionless. These results show that mononormativity and internalized negativity can shape the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of CNM individuals toward themselves and their partners.

A Narrative Review of the Dichotomy Between the Social Views of Non-Monogamy and the Experiences of Consensual Non-Monogamous People

Monogamy is deeply rooted in most Western societies, shaping how people construe and behave in romantic relationships. These normative views facilitate the emergence of negative perceptions and evaluations when people choose not to adhere to mononormativity. Even though people in consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationships are targets of stigmatization, research shows a dichotomy between these negative views and the relational experiences of CNM people. Indeed, people in CNM and monogamous relationships have comparable relationship functioning and quality and struggle with similar relationship problems. One of the differences is that CNM relationships afford people to explore their sexuality and fulfill their needs with multiple partners, without agreed-upon extradyadic behavior being perceived as infidelity or having deleterious consequences to relationship maintenance. These positive experiences notwithstanding, CNM people are continuously pressured by mononormativity and stigmatization, increasing the risk of internalized CNM negativity and worse personal and relational outcomes. One possible way to counteract CNM stigmatization and improve the lives of CNM people is by changing discourses surrounding non-monogamy and improving acceptance, not only in professional settings but also in the general population. Another strategy is to understand how the relationship beliefs and scripts of younger generations can help promote more inclusive and diverse societies.

Your Happiness Is My Happiness: Predicting Positive Feelings for a Partner's Consensual Extra-Dyadic Intimate Relations.

This quantitative study tested hypotheses derived from a previous qualitative study of the factors that facilitated and hindered compersion (the positive feelings derived from one's partner's intimate relations with others) in consensually non-monogamous (CNM) relationships. A total of 255 participants recruited from online CNM and Alt-Sex communities reported on demographic and relationship characteristics as well as individual, relationship, and metamour-related variables in an online anonymous survey. In Flicker et al. (2022), we identified various factors that predicted three subtypes of compersion: contentment with one's partner's relationships with established metamours (intimate partners of one's partners), excitement sparked by one's partner's new/potentially new intimate connections, and sexual excitement elicited by thinking about one's partner with another person. The current findings were consistent with the Flicker et al. qualitative study, with some hypotheses from the previous study more strongly supported than others. The predictors of compersion most strongly supported by the current data include closeness with one's metamour and knowledge about the partner/metamour relationship, in a positive direction, as well as jealousy, envy, and attachment anxiety, in a negative direction. Individual-level predictors were weak predictors of compersion. The sexual arousal subtype of compersion was weakly endorsed by the current sample and predictors of this subtype were distinct from predictors of the other subtypes of compersion. The findings suggest that the development of new interventions that target reducing jealousy and envy and increasing attachment security within the unique context of CNM relationships could have the added benefit of increasing compersion. The development of these interventions stands to benefit a growing population of individuals involved in CNM relationships.

Consensual nonmonogamous relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic

With its emphasis on practices like social distancing and periods of intermittent isolation, the COVID-19 pandemic likely presented unique challenges for individuals who engage in consensual nonmonogamy (CNM). Interviews with 16 practitioners of CNM in the United States conducted in May–July, 2021 revealed five themes about how COVID-19 impacted their relationships: (1) slowing down relationship activity and progress; (2) speeding up relationship changes and milestones; (3) providing the opportunity for reflecting on nonmonogamous identities and relationships; (4) facilitation of clarifying intentions around nonmonogamous relationships; and (5) offering unique opportunities to apply skills from safer sex negotiations to navigating safety with precautions related to COVID-19. Findings illuminate how members of a community whose intimate practices were uniquely impacted in a time of limited sociality made meaning of their experience and charted the course for relationship trajectories.

“Monogamy? In this Economy?”: Stigma and Resilience in Consensual Non-Monogamous Relationships

Monogamous marriage, sometimes called “the bedrock of society,” still carries an apparent “halo” of moral superiority as a relationship structure. In contrast, consensual non-monogamous (CNM) configurations are stigmatized. Research indicates a connection between stigma, stress, and negative health outcomes, despite CNM comparing favorably with monogamy. The present study uses interviews to explore minority stress and resilience among individuals in CNM relationships. Participants experienced structural stigma as erasure, and interpersonal stigma as erasure and educational/emotional work. They also describe complex enmeshment between their relationship minority status and other aspects of their sexual and gender identities. Strategic disclosure and concealment were important management tools. Furthermore, managing individual (internalized) stigma was described as unlearning mononormative bias and surrounding oneself with supportive peers/allies. The strongest motivator for perseverance was the steadfast conviction that the advantages of CNM outweighed the challenges.

Polyfidelity Experiences, Loyalty Issues, and Triangulation Among Gay-male Couples

<p>本研究採用質性研究的敘說分析方法，透過伴侶觀點以及結構家族治療的視框，探討男同志在多重伴侶關係中之內涵。本研究以半結構式方法訪談一組男同志伴侶共三人，其多重伴侶關係經驗為六年。研究者依據個別及共同訪談的資料，呈現男同志在多重伴侶關係中個人的知覺與經驗，並整合三方資料編織出不同伴侶間的互動模式；主要研究結果發現如下：（1）本組男同志多重伴侶關係之內涵為「三人承諾彼此為伴侶，且情感與性關係是封閉在三人之間」，與先前西方學者進一步分類多重伴侶關係中的「複數忠誠」關係較為相似；（2）本組受訪男同志伴侶以「協商進入三人關係」來面對「精神出軌」事件，與過往異性戀研究中伴侶面對出軌事件的態度、方法較為不同；（3）本研究認為本組男同志複數忠誠關係的開展、維持，以及最後關係結束都與三角關係、忠誠議題有關；（4）本組男同志伴侶的界線始於模糊最後疏離，進而造成伴侶們情緒起伏、影響伴侶面對挑戰的能力。最後，根據以上研究結果提出對伴侶諮商實務工作的建議，以供後續相關人員作為參考。</p> <p> </p><p>Polyamorous relationships and other consensual non-monogamous relationships (CNM) have received more attention and interest from both scholars and popular communities in Western countries for more than 20 years. Contrarily, these have been underdiscussed in Taiwan. CNM relationships were mostly invisible in Taiwan; if mentioned, they were often solely connected to negative labels and stigmas. Only a handful of studies in Taiwan mention CNM relationships; fewer targeted polyamorous relationships and CNM relationships as the topic of their research and study. </p> <p>According to previous empirical studies in the U.S., polyamory and other CNM relationships are more common in gay-male communities. Although no empirical study has been conducted in Taiwan to estimate the population of CNM practitioners, comparatively more studies targeting gay-male relationships in Taiwan found some types of CNM relationships in their research. It is theorized that because gay-male individuals find themselves not fitting the heterosexual relationship norm, they have the opportunity to build their relationships from scratch. Because homosexual individuals have more opportunities to process and ponder what constitutes a relationship, it is easier for them to step out of monogamous norms and build their relationships differently. Considering the difficulty of recruiting polyamorous couples in Taiwan, the present study targeted gay-male couples as the participants of this study.</p> <p>Aiming to understand how gay couples build and sustain polyamorous relationships and their living experiences, the research question of this study was: What are the interaction patterns and dynamics among gaymale couples’ polyamorous relationships? </p> <p>Polyamorous relationships often involve more than two people, and the dynamics and interactions could be complicated and intricate. To better understand the dynamics of the relationships and interactions between couples, the present study utilized the Structural Family Therapy framework as a theoretical lens. </p> <p>To uncover the mystery of this often-neglected and stigmatized relationship and provide luminance and clarity to Taiwanese scholar and popular community, this qualitative research was conducted through narrative approach aiming to analyze the interaction patterns and relationship dynamics of polyamorous relationships among gay couples. A polyamorous couple, consisting of three participants aged 32-35 years, were recruited. Their polyamorous relationship lasted for six years but ended during the study. The present study used semi-structured interviews to collect data; joint interviews were conducted with couple participants, and individual interviews were followed up to collect individual views from each participant. However, only two of the three participants were interviewed individually because of their breakup.</p> <p>From the interviews conducted, the following conclusions were drawn. (1) The present gay-male participants agreed not to seek romantic or sexual connections outside of their established relationship structure. Their polyamorous relationships became "closed" and all members engaged in "polyfidelity" relationship. (2) Unlike most heterosexual couples in previous studies, the present gay-male couple negotiated and stepped into a polyamorous relationship to deal with their cheating issues. (3) The researchers believe the reason this polyfidelity relationship started and ended ,according to a systemic perspective and structural family therapy lens, was related to triangulation and loyalty issues. The ways in which triangulation and loyalty issues were maintained and ended the relationships were discussed. (4) The boundaries between these gay-male participants were either diffused or rigid and their relationships were both enmeshed and disengaged. Researchers believe that these boundary issues may raise negative emotions, such as jealousy between couples, and compromise couples’ ability to deal with couple-hood challenges. </p> <p>Finally, resources and suggestions are presented for mental health, marriage, and family professionals.</p> <p> </p>

Stigma Toward Consensual Non-Monogamy: Thematic Analysis and Minority Stress.

Consensually non-monogamous (CNM) romantic and sexual relationships tend to be stigmatized. The present research examined this stigma across two studies. First, we qualitatively explored the specific ways that people in CNM relationships report experiencing stigma using thematic analysis and identified the following four themes: Expressions of discomfort/disapproval of CNM, Loss of resources/threatening behaviors, Character devaluation, and Relationship devaluation (Study 1; N = 372). Second, we examined the relationship between experienced stigma and psychological well-being for people in CNM relationships, using the framework of minority stress theory. We found that experienced stigma was positively associated with psychological distress and that this association was partially statistically mediated by anticipated stigma and internalized stigma (Study 2; N = 383). Overall, this research strives to achieve a better understanding of the processes and potential consequences of stigma toward CNM relationships and individuals.

Are the Developmental Features of Emerging Adulthood Associated with Willingness to Engage in Consensually Nonmonogamous Relationships?

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the developmental features of emerging adulthood were associated with willingness to engage in consensually nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships. All participants (N = 792) were English speaking emerging adults (ages 18-25) residing in the USA. About half were attending college, whereas the other half had no college experience. After controlling for a number of variables (i.e., college status, sex/gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity exploration, sexual identity commitment, and casual sex attitudes), greater perceptions of emerging adulthood as a time of identity exploration and feeling in between were negatively associated with willingness to engage in CNM relationships. Also, greater perceptions of emerging adulthood as a time of experimentation/possibilities was positively associated with willingness to engage in CNM. Although our final model explained 33.5% of the variance in willingness to engage in CNM relationships, perceptions of the developmental features of emerging adulthood accounted for just 4.2% of the variance explained. Future research on CNM relationships and relationship education for emerging adults are discussed.

Consensual Non-Monogamy Relationship Rules Among Young Gay and Bisexual Men: A Dyadic Qualitative Analysis.

Consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationship rules, the boundaries and understandings partners have about acceptable behaviors related to their CNM relationship, are associated with relationship functioning and sexual health risk among gay and bisexual men. Partnered young gay and bisexual men (YGBM) experience unique relational challenges and sexual health disparities. Thus, understanding the nuances of relationship rules among YGBM in CNM relationships is of particular importance. However, few studies have examined relationship rules specifically among YGBM. The current study sought to explore relationship rules among YGBM in CNM relationships, including both those explicitly discussed and those implicitly assumed. We also assessed concordance and discrepancies in partners' reports of their relationship rules, as well as rule violations. Partners from 10 CNM couples (n = 20; Mage = 25.3) completed separate semi-structured interviews that included questions about their relationship rules. Individual- and dyad-level analyses were conducted using a modified version of the consensual qualitative research method. Three main themes of relationship rules emerged from the data: extradyadic partner criteria, conditions regarding extradyadic sex, and conditions regarding maintenance of the primary relationship. While 39% of participants reported rules that were not endorsed by their partner, few clearly contradictory discrepancies in partners' reports were observed. Nine participants reported having at least one implicit rule and 70% of participants (from 8 of 10 couples) reported that they and/or their partner violated at least one rule. Explicit rules and rule concordance may be associated with improved relationship functioning. Common violations of sexual risk reduction rules may contribute to YGBM's increased HIV/STI risk.

What Drives the Dehumanization of Consensual Non-Monogamous Partners?

We built upon a recent study by Rodrigues, Fasoli, Huic, and Lopes (2018) by investigating potential mechanisms driving the dehumanization of consensual non-monogamous (CNM) partners. Using a between-subjects experimental design, we asked 202 Portuguese individuals (158 women; Mage = 29.17, SD = 9.97) to read the description of two partners in a monogamous, open, or polyamorous relationship, and to make a series of judgments about both partners. Results showed the expected dehumanization effect, such that both groups of CNM partners (open and polyamorous) were attributed more primary (vs. secondary) emotions, whereas the reverse was true for monogamous partners. Moreover, results showed that the dehumanization effect was driven by the perception of CNM partners as less moral and less committed to their relationship. However, these findings were observed only for individuals with unfavorable (vs. favorable) attitudes toward CNM relationship. Overall, this study replicated the original findings and extended our understanding of why people in CNM relationships are stigmatized.

Are there "Better" and "Worse" Ways to be Consensually Non-Monogamous (CNM)?: CNM Types and CNM-Specific Predictors of Dyadic Adjustment.

Research on consensual non-monogamy (CNM) has largely been restricted to comparisons between monogamous and CNM people, with researchers paying little attention to various CNM styles. The current research elucidated differences among three styles of CNM: open relationships, polyamory, and swinging. Across three studies, we demonstrated that people in polyamorous or swinger-style relationships have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and other relational outcomes (e.g., passionate love, trust) than those in open relationships. That is, people in open relationships consistently fared more poorly in their relational outcomes than those in other types of CNM relationships. In Studies 4 and 5, we isolated some of the reasons for these differences. We found that differences in relational outcomes between open-style and other styles of CNM dissipated when controlling for (a) couples' approach to communication, (b) extrinsic versus intrinsic motivations for participating in CNM, (c) adherence to pro-monogamy beliefs and (d) degree of contact with one's partner's partners ("metamours"). Thus, CNM-specific relational dynamics are associated with dyadic adjustment in these relationships.

The Vices and Virtues of Consensual Non-Monogamy:A Relational Dimension Investigation

ABSTRACT The purpose of the present study was to examine associations between heterosexual consensually non-monogamous (CNM) and monogamous relationships and variables relating to relationship functioning and individual well-being. Participants (N = 555) were solicited online and asked to rate a number of items regarding their type of relationship, satisfaction, commitment, trust, conflict resolution style, and well-being. As compared to participants in monogamous relationships, people who participated in CNM reported more satisfaction, commitment, intimacy, passion, and love. Additionally, participants in CNM favoured positive problem-solving with their partners, while monogamous participants preferred withdrawal tactics. Lastly, CNM participants also reported higher psychological well-being. Collectively, the results support past findings of overall health and functionality of CNM relationships, which deviates from the mononormative assumptions of our society.

Beyond the Dyad: a Review of the Novel Insights Gained From Studying Consensual Non-monogamy

The purpose of this review is to highlight the major advancements in our understanding of consensually non-monogamous (CNM) relationships—or intimate relationships between three or more people who are non-exclusive sexually and/or emotionally. We aim to review key insights from research on the benefits (i.e., diversification of need fulfillment) and challenges (i.e., continued stigma) of CNM relationships and how research on CNM highlights some limitations of the existing theories of relationships. The last two decades have seen a trend towards increasing diversity of family structures. Although monogamy remains the most common relationship structure, CNM relationships are increasing in prevalence and in interest to both lay people and researchers. Recent research has begun to uncover novel insights into who is more likely to be drawn to and engage in CNM, how CNM relationships compare to monogamous relationships, and the potential benefits and challenges of engaging in CNM relationships. While people in CNM relationships still experience stigma, for those who desire such relationships, CNM can be a viable and healthy alternative to monogamy, and may even help people meet more of their needs through diversifying need fulfillment across multiple partners. Despite this, many existing relationship theories are not inclusive of CNM relationship experiences and aspects of existing theories of positive relationships and sexuality may not extend to people in CNM relationships. Moving forward it is important to consider whether our concepts and measures are inclusive to people in diverse relationships, including those in CNM relationships.

Fantasies About Consensual Nonmonogamy Among Persons in Monogamous Romantic Relationships.

The present research explored fantasies about consensual nonmonogamous relationships (CNMRs) and the factors that predict such fantasies in a large and diverse online sample (N = 822) of persons currently involved in monogamous relationships. Nearly one-third (32.6%) of participants reported that being in some type of sexually open relationship was part of their favorite sexual fantasy of all time, of whom most (80.0%) said that they want to act on this fantasy in the future. Those who had shared and/or acted on CNMR fantasies previously generally reported positive outcomes (i.e., meeting or exceeding their expectations and improving their relationships). In addition, a majority of participants reported having fantasized about being in a CNMR at least once before, with open relationships being the most popular variety. Those who identified as male or non-binary reported more CNMR fantasies than those who identified as female. CNMR fantasies were also more common among persons who identified as anything other than heterosexual and among older adults. Erotophilia and sociosexual orientation were uniquely and positively associated with CNMR fantasies of all types; however, other individual difference factors (e.g., Big Five personality traits, attachment style) had less consistent associations. Unique predictors of infidelity fantasies differed from CNMR fantasies, suggesting that they are propelled by different psychological factors. Overall, these results suggest that CNMRs are a popular fantasy and desire among persons in monogamous romantic relationships. Clinical implications and implications for sexual fantasy research more broadly are discussed.

Sexual Motivation and Satisfaction Among Consensually Non-Monogamous and Monogamous Individuals

BackgroundPrevious research has found differences in sexual motives and, separately, sexual satisfaction in consensually non-monogamous (CNM) and monogamous individuals and that these constructs are related to relationship outcomes (eg, relationship quality). AimsThe present study sought to refine and expand on previous research by (i) using a more common, validated measure of sexual motives, (ii) measuring sexual satisfaction with multiple partners within CNM relationships, and (iii) examining how sexual motives are related to sexual satisfaction in CNM relationships. MethodsParticipants were recruited from a university and using online forums that CNM individuals frequently use (eg, reddit, Facebook). Individuals recruited included those in non-exclusive relationships with one partner (“non-exclusive single-partner;” n = 40), those in non-exclusive relationships with more than one partner (“non-exclusive multipartner;” n = 87), and monogamous individuals (n = 322). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance and hierarchical multiple regressions. OutcomesThe main outcome measures of this study are scores on the Why Humans Have Sex Scale and the New Scale for Sexual Satisfaction. ResultsNon-exclusive multipartner participants were more motivated to have sex for physical motivations compared with monogamous participants. Although there were no significant differences in sexual satisfaction when comparing monogamous with non-exclusive multipartner participant's secondary and primary partners, unique patterns of sexual motivations were associated with sexual satisfaction based on relationship configuration. Clinical TranslationUnderstanding the unique sexual motives associated with sexual satisfaction in various relationship configurations may help improve clinical approaches to couples counseling for both CNM and non-CNM populations. Strengths and LimitationsData were collected from CNM participants in a variety of relationship configurations and provide analyses comparing primary and secondary partners. However, these results are limited by a small sample of CNM participants who were intentionally recruited from self-identified CNM e-forums. ConclusionsThese findings add further understanding to the unique traits that characterize CNM individuals and the underlying motivational framework that may encourage individuals to initiate and maintain CNM relationships.Mitchell VE, Mogilski JK, Donaldson SH, et al. Sexual Motivation and Satisfaction Among Consensually Non-Monogamous and Monogamous Individuals. J Sex Med 2020;17:1072–1085.

Social network sites as empowerment tools in consensual non-monogamies. The case of polyamory in Italy

Consensual non-monogamies, where partners agree to pursue other romantic or sexual relationships, have gained greater visibility with the advent of online communication tools. How is the diffusion of social network sites linked to the spread of consensual non-monogamous relationships? This study is based on the analysis of 22 semi-structured interviews with people who define themselves as “polyamorous” and are active members of the two biggest polyamory groups on Facebook in Italy.The results suggest that people come to the decision to engage in non-monogamous relationships before they join online groups dedicated to this topic. Moreover, specific online groups do not constitute a privileged base from which to recruit new romantic or sexual partners. However, the availability of shared online spaces is important for “giving things a name”, making it easier to share experiences with other group members and more generally off-line, sometimes helping in coming out.

Life History and Multi-Partner Mating: A Novel Explanation for Moral Stigma Against Consensual Non-monogamy.

Life history theory (LHT) predicts that individuals vary in their sexual, reproductive, parental, familial, and social behavior according to the physical and social challenges imposed upon them throughout development. LHT provides a framework for understanding why non-monogamy may be the target of significant moral condemnation: individuals who habitually form multiple romantic or sexual partnerships may pursue riskier, more competitive interpersonal strategies that strain social cooperation. We compared several indices of life history (i.e., the Mini-K, the High-K Strategy Scale, pubertal timing, sociosexuality, disease avoidance, and risk-taking) between individuals practicing monogamous and consensually non-monogamous (CNM) romantic relationships. Across several measures, CNM individuals reported a faster life history strategy than monogamous individuals, and women in CNM relationships reported earlier pubertal development. CNM individuals also reported more social and ethical risk-taking, less aversion to germs, and greater interest in short-term mating (and less interest in long-term mating) than monogamous individuals. From these data, we discuss a model to explain how moral stigma toward non-monogamy evolved and how these attitudes may be mismatched to the modern environment. Specifically, we argue that the culture of sexual ethics that pervades contemporary CNM communities (e.g., polyamory, swinging) may attenuate risky interpersonal behaviors (e.g., violent intrasexual competition, retributive jealousy, partner/child abandonment, disease transmission) that are relatively more common among those who pursue multi-partner mating.

Perceived Stigmatization and Disclosure among Individuals in Consensually Nonmonogamous Relationships

AbstractThe current study aimed to identify common themes regarding stigma and identity disclosure among individuals in Consensually Nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships. Researchers conducted semistructured interviews with participants (N = 8) to gather information about their current or previous CNM relationship(s). Utilizing an Inductive Latent Thematic approach within a Constructivist framework, results indicated that the majority of the participants acknowledged CNM as being a stigmatized identity and were most likely to disclose their relationship to others if the target message recipient was perceived to be affirming and open minded. Several participants discussed their experiences and the potential consequences of being outed. Implications and future directions are discussed.

Gender, sexual orientation and type of relationship influence individual differences in jealousy: A large Brazilian sample

Jealousy is supposed to secure the relationship against a third party. Both partners face significant potential costs in case of the partner desertion caused by an extra-pair liaison. However, studies systematically find higher emotional and overall jealousy among women. Interestingly, sex differences in jealousy do not appear among non-heterosexual or consensually non-monogamous (CNM) individuals. We aimed to investigate effect of gender, sexual orientation and type of relationship on several measures of jealousy. A large Brazilian sample of 5,230 men and women (Mage = 28.3) responded to demographic questions, relationship status and type, Reactive Jealousy Scale, Sexual Jealousy Scale, Self-reported Jealousy, and the Kinsey Scale of Sexual Orientation. Participants were classified as singles (N = 2,253, 43%), those in monogamous (N = 2,578, 49%) and CNM relationships (N = 400, 8%). Women reported higher overall and emotional jealousy than men, but these sex differences did not apply to non-heterosexuals or CNM individuals. CNM individuals reported lower overall and sexual jealousy. This supports the notion that specific individual (e.g., gender, sexual orientation) and social (e.g., relationship status and type) factors influence the psychological trait of jealousy.

Beyond the crazy ex-girlfriend: Drawing the contours of a radical vulnerability

In this article, I reflect on the process of understanding and my strategies of reporting in the context of a three-year ethnographic study on non-monogamous sex and relationships in Belgium, which included interviews and participant observation in various dating sites and in support groups for people in consensual non-monogamous relationships. I draw the contours of what a research ethics that creates space for the researcher's embodied learning, and learning through sexual-intimate relationships in particular, might look like, centralizing the concept of vulnerability. An ethics of intersubjective vulnerability not only has the potential to constitute an epistemological position from which to conduct critical analyses that aims at producing multidimensional and embodied understanding of power relations, it also constitutes a space of political contestation and a position from which to start to envision alternative possibilities to the neoliberal values that have pervaded society.