What is consensual non-monogamy (CNM) and why are more people exploring relationship structures beyond traditional monogamy?

In this episode of Let’s Talk About Sex, Dr. Laura Prescott, Director of Clinical Training and Associate Professor for the Clinical PsyD program at The Chicago School – Los Angeles, sits down with her student Hemiah, who is researching consensual non-monogamy for her dissertation. Together they explore the growing interest in polyamory, open relationships, swinging, and other CNM relationship structures.

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Consensual non-monogamy refers to relationship arrangements where partners openly agree that romantic or sexual connections with multiple people are acceptable, provided there is transparency, consent, and communication among everyone involved.

In this conversation, Dr. Prescott and Hemiah discuss:

• What consensual non-monogamy (CNM) is and how it differs from cheating

• Different CNM relationship structures such as polyamory, swinging, and triads

• Why some people feel drawn to non-monogamous relationships

• The role of communication, trust, and boundaries

• The impact of stigma surrounding CNM relationships

• Managing jealousy and emotional reactions

• The concept of compersion, or feeling joy for a partner’s experiences with others

• Practical advice for individuals curious about exploring CNM

The discussion also highlights how healthy CNM relationships rely heavily on communication, consent, and clear expectations, much like any successful relationship.

Whether you are curious about alternative relationship structures, interested in the psychology of modern relationships, or simply looking to better understand polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, this episode provides an informative and thoughtful introduction to the topic.

Topics Covered

• Consensual non-monogamy (CNM)

• Polyamory and open relationships

• Swinging and relationship exploration

• Jealousy and emotional processing in CNM

• Compersion in relationships

• Communication and boundaries

• Reducing stigma around alternative relationship structures

• (00:00:00) - Non-Monogamy with Laura Prescott
• (00:00:32) - What is Polyamorous Living (CNM)?
• (00:04:23) - Cunnison Male Relationship: The Pros and Cons
• (00:06:34) - What is Jealousy in CNM?
• (00:07:30) - Is CNM The Best? (Polyamory)
• (00:10:58) - Why are you passionate about same-sex relationships?
• (00:12:28) - Polyamorous Living: Tips and Tricks for People