In recent years, open relationships have increasingly moved into the main view of our society. Mainstream media such as TV shows and movies have began to portray in more normal fashion. But despite growing visibility, open relationships often remain misunderstood and plagued by inaccuracies.
In today’s exploration, we’ll dive into personal autonomy. We’ll look at the individuals who have the right to make decisions about their romantic connections without interference from society, which includes family and friends.
The Historical Happenings of Relationship Norms
So, how did we get here.
Well, it all begins with legal interpretations.
Historically, societal laws all over the world were designed to control who people can love. This is more evident when we look towards concepts such as gay marriage. But its the same with open relationships.
For instance, in the United States, anti-miscegenation laws, which were not overturned until the landmark 1967 Supreme Court case Loving v. Virginia, made it illegal for interracial couples to marry.
But these weren’t just laws. In a sense, they also act as moral statements that guide people to falling in line with a standard. They embedded discrimination into the very fabrics of our society. And hence why open relationships struggled for many years to take foot.
Every legal victory for relationship rights was harshly challenged. But with each victory also came cracks in the system that allowed more romantic uprisings.
Today’s advocates for open relationships challenge an idea that love must be an exclusive experience to offer any meaning.
We know that’s not true – not true at all.
Autonomy in Relationships
Autonomy in relationships refers to the right of the individuals to make independent decisions about their own needs. This means respecting how people form and maintain relationships. Its all about mutual agreement and mutual consent.
And this flies in the face of societal expectations.
In an ethical open relationship, autonomy is a crucial aspect that helps all parties engage in a joyful experience.
As an example, partners in an open relationship likely set specific guidelines around emotional connections and physical boundaries.
This is all called empowering through choice. The open relationship embraces autonomy which empowers the individuals to explore their own desires without shame.
No One Should Control Who You Love
There is a profound truth that underpins the fight for relationship freedom: no one should have the authority to dictate who you love. This fundamental belief fueled the movements that led to the dismantling of restrictive gay and interracial marriage laws. These victories were achieved through the perseverance of individuals who championed the universal right to love freely, challenging entrenched prejudices and legal barriers.
However, even in societies where laws have evolved to become more inclusive, interpersonal challenges persist. Resistance to non-traditional relationship models often comes from closer quarters—family, friends, and acquaintances.
Consider the elderly uncle who clings to outdated morals, or the colleague who dismisses open relationships as lacking in virtue. These individuals may not wield legal power, but their judgments can inflict emotional turmoil, casting a shadow of doubt and shame. Their skepticism or disapproval, though not legally binding, can make those in open relationships feel marginalized or invalidated in their personal choices.
It’s crucial to recognize that the right to decide the structure of your relationships resides solely with the consenting adults involved. Opinions from outside that circle—no matter how vocally expressed—should not override the personal agency and mutual respect that form the basis of any relationship. Embracing this autonomy is not just about defying outdated norms but about affirming the dignity and validity of one’s choices in the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in relationships.
This autonomy empowers individuals to craft relationships that truly reflect their values and needs, free from the constraints of traditional expectations. It’s about building a culture where diverse relationship styles are not just tolerated but respected as valid expressions of human connection.
Autonomy Within the Open Relationship
Now, what happens when we have issues within our own?
What happens when we are in an open relationship, but ironically, the person(s) we are in that relationship with are controlling.
Well, that’s just as bad as those who try to uphold moral hierarchies.
Its important to make sure that you maintain autonomy in any relationships, including your modern open relationship. In fact, if you feel controlled by a partner, you’re likely not in a healthy situation.
It’s essential to maintain a clear sense of autonomy in all relationships, including non-monogamous ones. If you find yourself feeling controlled or restricted by a partner, it may be a sign that the relationship is veering away from its ethical roots. True autonomy means having the freedom to express your desires and boundaries without fear of retribution or emotional manipulation.
In such situations, it’s important to take a step back and critically evaluate the health of the relationship. Open dialogue is key—discussing feelings of discomfort or coercion openly can help clarify whether these issues can be resolved through communication and mutual understanding, or whether they signify deeper, more systemic problems within the relationship dynamic.
Conclusion
While open relationships have come a long ways, its always a good idea to continue to examine the ethics behind any relationship you form. Your autonomy is important both in society and culture, as well as in the actual relationships you pursue.
Open relationships are not a fix all. But they can help you regain an excitement and lust for fun and adventure. But they do require their own maintenance. Meet people looking for open relationships in your area.