A review by jnnutter
The Polyamorists Next Door: Inside Multiple-Partner Relationships and Families by Elisabeth Sheff
4.0
4.25/5
I think this is an important read for anyone who knows humans in contemporary western society. As much as we should all be aware of the issues that other minority and culturally vulnerable populations face and the contexts in which they live their lives, polyamory is becoming increasingly prevalent, and whether or not one considers that their orientation, it is important to have the language to navigate when you encounter friends, colleagues, clients, etc who are.
This book is a qualitative study and in that vein it is not a practical guide for those seeking to live a polyamorous life. While I think it is a good primer for breaking down the social barriers between the hegemonic monogamous ideal that most of us are raised under, be aware that this is definitely a research study. In its vein it is well compiled, supported, and discussed from my perspective of doing that kind of research for the past decade or so.
Primarily focusing on families and impacts on children, I think this study does a good job of covering the basics. It is definitely feminist and LGBTQ friendly.
There are also keen insights drawn from polyamorist experiences that more traditional relationships, both romantic and not could learn from. Particularly regarding communication, openness, and social support.
I recommend, and in fact encourage everyone to read it, if only to make yourself aware of a segment of the population that is both ignored and stigmatized.
I think this is an important read for anyone who knows humans in contemporary western society. As much as we should all be aware of the issues that other minority and culturally vulnerable populations face and the contexts in which they live their lives, polyamory is becoming increasingly prevalent, and whether or not one considers that their orientation, it is important to have the language to navigate when you encounter friends, colleagues, clients, etc who are.
This book is a qualitative study and in that vein it is not a practical guide for those seeking to live a polyamorous life. While I think it is a good primer for breaking down the social barriers between the hegemonic monogamous ideal that most of us are raised under, be aware that this is definitely a research study. In its vein it is well compiled, supported, and discussed from my perspective of doing that kind of research for the past decade or so.
Primarily focusing on families and impacts on children, I think this study does a good job of covering the basics. It is definitely feminist and LGBTQ friendly.
There are also keen insights drawn from polyamorist experiences that more traditional relationships, both romantic and not could learn from. Particularly regarding communication, openness, and social support.
I recommend, and in fact encourage everyone to read it, if only to make yourself aware of a segment of the population that is both ignored and stigmatized.