PolyFamilies

What is polyamory?

We define polyamory as open, honest, ethical non-monogamy. The word polyamory comes from the Greek "“poly"” meaning "“many" and the Latin word "“amor"” meaning "“love."

So are you guys swingers or "wife swappers"?

Although swinging does fall under the general heading of ethical non-monogamy, most swingers engage in a single primary romantic relationship while allowing for other physical but less emotionally committed partners. Polyamory covers a wide range of possible physical and emotional relationships, including multiple "“primary"” partners.

Are you guys in a cult?

No! People who engage in polyamory come from all different faiths (as well as no faith). Most of us consider this a lifestyle choice or sexual orientation.

But don’’t you get jealous?

Being polyamorous does not mean that you are immune to jealousy; we feel that jealousy can and does occur in any relationship. However, we feel that jealousy should be discussed and addressed. Jealousy, like many problems in a relationship, can be worked through.

What about your children?

"It takes a village..." RVA Poly Families exist in several forms, and may include many different people. Children often thrive in multi-parent families, and benefit greatly from the added adult attention and support. No child has ever suffered from too much love.

Aren’’t you worried you will catch an STI?

Sexually transmitted infections are a big concern for polyamorous people, as they should be for everyone. While having multiple sex partners can increase your risk of being exposed to an infection, we feel that education, testing, and good safer-sex measures are the best way to protect yourself against STIs. We feel it is important for individuals to take responsibility for their sexual health, whether they have one partner or a hundred.

What do your parents think? What if your boss finds out?

Many polyamorous people are still "in the walk-in closet", so-called because it is the only type of closet that will hold us and all our family. Coming out can be risky, but many of us feel it is important to be honest about who we are. Polyamory is far from mainstream, and many people fear if they come out they may be rejected by their families or discriminated against in the workplace. Some polyamorous people simply feel that their intimate sexual choices are private. Other polyamorous people choose to come out to friends, family, and co-workers freely. Hopefully as more polyamorous people come out of the walk-in closet, polyamory will become more socially accepted.

 

For more information, check our our Resources page!