Monogamy is a relationship with only one partner at a time, rather than multiple partners. A monogamous relationship can be sexual or emotional, but its usually both. Many modern relationships are monogamous. But even if they want to be with just one partner, some people have trouble staying monogamous.

What are the benefits of a monogamous relationship?

One advantage of monogamy is that it fosters emotional intimacy, supporting two people in developing a strong, affectionate relationship. In a monogamous relationship, most people expect the search for a partner to be over, building a solid, intimate relationship that will stand the test of time.

Are monogamous relationship realistic?

If we mean realistic for the species of humans, then the answer clearly is yes. In various cultures around the world people are able to engage in lifelong monogamous relationships. Frequently those relationships are termed polyamorous, which means concurrent emotional relationships with more than one other person.

What is the difference between polygamy and monogamy?

In Western cultures, monogamy and polygamy are the two most common types of unions. Monogamy is officially defined as the practice or state of having a sexual relationship with only one partner while polygamy consists of a marriage in which a spouse of any gender may have more than one mate at the same time.

How common is monogamy?

A range of 1.8% to 3.7% extrapair paternity implies a range of 96% to 98% genetic monogamy. Although the incidence of genetic monogamy may vary from 70% to 99% in different cultures or social environments, a large percentage of couples remain genetically monogamous during their relationships.