The term may be considered a type of polyamory. It may sometimes be used to refer to polyamory, although not all polyamorous relationships are open relationships (although many are). People in a polyamorous can agree to have a closed relationship, in which in people agree to only see those who in the relationship.
There are several different styles of open relationships. Some examples include:
- Multi-partner relationships: A relationship between three or more partners where a sexual relationship does not occur between all of the parties involved. (Example: A and B are in a relationship. B is also seeing C, and A is seeing D. A and C are not involved and B and D are not involved.)
- Hybrid relationships: When one partner is nonmonogamous and the other is monogamous. (Ie: A is dating B. B is polyamorous and is also in a relationship with C and D. A is monogamous and is only dating B.)
- Swinging: In which singles or partners in a committed relationship engage in sexual activities with others as a recreational or social activity.[1]
History
The concept of an open relationship has been recognized since the 1970s.
Flags
The original open relationship flag was designed by NonMonoPrideFlags on DeviantArt on December 3, 2015.[2] Green represents the balance between multiple relationships. Grey represents the shade of grey that society sees with these kinds of relationships. Orange represents the openness between partners. A red infinity heart is also included.
The second open relationship flag was coined by a user going by Artemis. It holds the same meaning as the original.