Topic

Polyamory and Relationship Structures

Hierarchical or non-hierarchical, solo or nesting, triads, polycules and open marriages: a clear guide to the many ways people shape non-monogamous relationships.

Polyamory means having, or being open to, more than one loving relationship at a time, with everyone’s knowledge and consent. Within it, and within Ethical Non-Monogamy more broadly, people organise their relationships in very different ways. Some keep a primary partnership, some reject hierarchy altogether, and some prioritise their own autonomy above any couple.

There is no single correct structure. The guides below explain the most common models, the vocabulary that goes with them, and the questions to consider when deciding what could work for you and the people you love.

Start with these

Polyamory Explained: Key Things to Know

The essentials of polyamory, in plain language.

Types of Poly Relationships and Dynamics

An overview of the most common structures and how they differ.

What You Need to Know About Hierarchical Polyamory

How primary and secondary relationships work, and their trade-offs.

What You Must Know About the Solo Poly Lifestyle

Polyamory that centres your own autonomy.

Resources

Practical tools for this topic

Reading helps you understand. These tools help you put it into practice. Each one is a printable, self-paced PDF you can work through on your own or with your partners, written specifically for Ethical Non-Monogamy.

ENM Living · WorksheetYes / No / Maybe WorksheetWorksheet · PDF · 38 pagesYes/No/Maybe WorksheetKnow your yeses, noes and maybes before the big conversation.A guided tool to map your desires, limits and open questions in Ethical Non-Monogamy, so you can talk to partners with clarity instead of guesswork.Turn vague feelings into clear wordsSpot where you and your partners differRevisit it as your relationships changeSee the worksheet ENM Living · GuideBoundaries & ExpectationsGuide · PDFHow to Set Boundaries & Manage Expectations in ENMClear limits, fewer misunderstandings.An in-depth guide to setting boundaries that feel right, managing expectations across relationships and handling difficult conversations with confidence.Communicate limits clearlyPrevent recurring misunderstandingsNavigate hard conversations calmlySee the guide

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