Serial monogamy

Serial monogamy

Serial monogamy is characterized by a series of long- or short-term, exclusive sexual relationships entered into consecutively over the lifespan. [Definition by [http://www.health24.com/sex/Glossary/1253-1271,26484.asp Health24's] sex glossary.] 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, [ [http://www.ilaam.net/Brochures/Brochure-13.html Mary Amir Ali, Ph.D.] refers to the practice as "serial polygamy"] or replacement for, [" [http://gruntledcenter.blogspot.com/2006/02/serial-monogamy-serial-polygamy-or.html Serial Monogamy, Serial Polygamy, or Worse?] " suggests that some rich men only practice serial monogamy because polygamy is illegal.] 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.

Animals

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.

Western culture

Within Western culture, serial monogamy is considered more fundamental than "full" monogamy. [Serena Petrella (Department of Sociology, Carleton University, Canada) declares serial monogamy a "norm" in her article " [http://www.inter-disciplinary.net/ci/sexuality/s1/s1.htm Only with You – Maybe – If You Make Me Happy: A Genealogy of Serial Monogamy as Governance and Self- Governance] .] [ [http://www.zephoria.org/thoughts/archives/2003/05/01/feminism_and_the_moral_animal.html Feminism and The Moral Animal] states: "We do not actually live in a society built on monogamy, but on serial monogamy."] Relatively few people consciously enter a long-term relationship wanting it to eventually end so as to begin another.

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. [It is said to have been "rife" in ancient Rome " [http://www.trivia-library.com/b/alternative-forms-of-marriage-serial-monogamy.htm Alternative Forms of Marriage Serial Monogamy] " at Trivia-Library.com.] As divorce has continued to become more accessible, more individuals have availed themselves of it, and many go on to remarry. [In Canada, 46% of divorcées will remarry according to " [http://www.slaw.ca/2006/06/28/serial-monogamy-not/ Till death do us part? The risk of first and second marriage dissolution] " by Warren Clark and Susan Crompton.]

ee also

*Sexual revolution

Notes


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