| Keywords [eng] |
polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, minority stress theory, psychological well-being, qualitative study, poliamorija, etinė nemonogamija, mažumų streso teorija, kokybinis tyrimas, psichologinė gerovė |
| Abstract [eng] |
Polyamorous individuals often face stigma, misunderstanding, and exclusion, not only in society but also within the systems designed to support their mental health. However, psychology has largely overlooked consensually non-monogamous relationships, including polyamory. The aim of the study is to explore and understand the experiences and psychological well-being of polyamorous individuals. A qualitative study design was chosen for this research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six polyamorous individuals, four women and two men, their ages ranging from 21 to 49. Thematic analysis was selected for this study, and three main themes were identified: Individual Experience, Relational Experience, and Societal Experience. The findings show that the stigma held by society and mental health professionals toward polyamorous individuals is contributing to unnecessary stress and reduced well-being among participants. Nevertheless, the emotionally rewarding nature of these relationships, the freedom to shape personal dynamics, opportunities for growth, autonomy, community support, and acceptance within therapeutic contexts led participants to conclude that involvement in polyamorous relationships is a positive experience overall. |
