Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) is an umbrella term describing relationship structures in which all participants explicitly agree to engage in romantic or sexual connections with more than one person. Unlike infidelity, CNM is based on mutual consent, communication, and ethical transparency. Forms of CNM include @polyamory, open relationships, swinging, and @Relationship Anarchy, among others. These structures vary widely in terms of emotional intimacy, boundaries, and levels of involvement between partners. The concept has been studied in psychology and sociology, particularly in relation to attachment theory, communication practices, and stigma. While historically marginalized, CNM is increasingly recognized in academic, therapeutic, and cultural discourse as a valid relationship orientation rather than a phase or pathology. It intersects with broader conversations about autonomy, gender, and the evolving norms of commitment. Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) is widely used as an umbrella term in both research and media to cover all relationship structures in which more than two people are romantically or sexually involved and all parties are aware and in agreement.

Contexts

• #consensual-non-monogamy (See: @Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM))
• #relational-framework