Controversial relationship set-ups (open, swinging, mistresses, etc) - can they ever work?

[DefinitelyNotMyUsualName]

That's it, really. Am curious. Interested to open up a bit of a discussion on what alternative relationship set-ups might be workable.

TIA

yes i think they can, if all parties in the relationship are open and honest about what they want and what the 'rules' are.
I think where it can all end in tears is if one party is not as keen, and would prefer an exclusive 'conventional' relationship and is just doing it to keep the other party happy, or where the balance of power is unequal, and one person is being exploited/having their feelings troden on

Thanks, skeletonbones. Anyone else?

Think you'd better rename this 'alternative relationship set-ups' before Madamez sees it

I don't think I could even entertain the idea. It's effort enough having to shag one person at the end of a long day, let alone a string of 'em. Not for I, thank you!

i like a good shag, think its a shame when it becomes a chore.

couldnt do this though

Can for Tilda Swinton by all accounts.

believe in monogomy myself but whatever floats your boat is what i say

Any type of relationship setup will work if it is what both/all parties involved want and everyone is open and honest about their needs and wants and respects the other person/people.

Trust is the key

I grew up in the Middle East and had quite a few friends and acquaintances who's fathers had more than one wife and the setup worked fine for everyone involved.

In one they all shared the same house, and both wives had their own bedroom. All the kids lived together and didn't differenciate between their full or half siblings either, their family where a very good example of how non-conventional western monogamous relationships can work just fine.

Interesting. Thank you. morningpaper and madamez - where are you?

Any other thoughts, anyone?

TIA

i dont think it does work - it raises too many questions about why you cant be with your partner - i think it is better to work on what you have - what does the song say 'love the one you're with'