Perceived Stigmatization and Disclosure among Individuals in Consensually Nonmonogamous Relationships

Abstract

Abstract The current study aimed to identify common themes regarding stigma and identity disclosure among individuals in Consensually Nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships. Researchers conducted semistructured interviews with participants ( N = 8) to gather information about their current or previous CNM relationship(s). Utilizing an Inductive Latent Thematic approach within a Constructivist framework, results indicated that the majority of the participants acknowledged CNM as being a stigmatized identity and were most likely to disclose their relationship to others if the target message recipient was perceived to be affirming and open minded. Several participants discussed their experiences and the potential consequences of being outed. Implications and future directions are discussed.