Serial monogamy

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Serial monogamy is characterized by a series of long- or short-term, exclusive sexual relationships entered into consecutively over the lifespan.[1] In common usage the two partners need not be married, but may be involved in a serious relationship. This behavior is a variant of monogamy, in which a given individual has only one sexual partner throughout life. This behavior is sometimes referred to as a form of,[2] or replacement for,[3] polygamy. This practice inherently excludes the practice of having multiple simultaneous sexual partners; however, people sometimes 'cheat' on their partners. This act goes against the 'code' of monogamy.

Contents

[edit] Animals

Main article: Animal sexuality

Generally, any animals that do not mate with one partner for life can be considered serially monogamous, including those who find a second mate only upon the death of the first.

[edit] Western culture

Within Western culture, serial monogamy is considered more fundamental than "full" monogamy.[4] [5] Relatively few people consciously enter a long-term relationship wanting it to eventually end so as to begin another.

[edit] Divorce

Serial monogamy has always been closely linked to divorce practices. Whenever procedures for obtaining divorce have been simple and easy, serial monogamy has been found.[6] As divorce has continued to become more accessible, more individuals have availed themselves of it, and many go on to remarry.[7]

[edit] See also

[edit] Notes

  1. ^ Definition by Health24's sex glossary.
  2. ^ Mary Amir Ali, Ph.D. refers to the practice as serial polygamy
  3. ^ Serial Monogamy, Serial Polygamy, or Worse? suggests that some rich men only practice serial monogamy because polygamy is illegal.
  4. ^ Serena Petrella (Department of Sociology, Carleton University, Canada) declares serial monogamy a "norm" in her article Only with You – Maybe – If You Make Me Happy: A Genealogy of Serial Monogamy as Governance and Self- Governance.
  5. ^ Feminism and The Moral Animal states: "We do not actually live in a society built on monogamy, but on serial monogamy."
  6. ^ It is said to have been "rife" in ancient Rome Alternative Forms of Marriage Serial Monogamy at Trivia-Library.com.
  7. ^ In Canada, 46% of divorcées will remarry according to Till death do us part? The risk of first and second marriage dissolution by Warren Clark and Susan Crompton.