Is Polyamory in Its Flop Era? Experts Weigh In

Match releases its 13th annual "Singles in America" study, coining the latest in singles dating trends and surprisingly, polyamory may soon get the proverbial "boot."

From Jada Pinkett Smith to Willow Smith and Lizzo, experts have witnessed a rise in unconventional relationship styles such as polyamory since 2020. In 2023, solo polyamory, having "multiple intimate relationships with people but having an independent or single lifestyle," was trending, as well. According to Match's research and its chief scientific advisor, Dr. Helen Fisher, "Polyamory and other forms of sexual exploration are thriving. But this practice is far from undermining traditional monogamy," as many assumed. Instead, "it’s enhancing it."

On their journey of (s)exploration, "singles say their sexual adventures have given them meaningful insights into what they really want in a long-term, stable partnership," Dr. Fisher continued. "In fact, nearly 50% of singles still want a traditional sexually monogamous relationship. This cultural trend can’t kill the human drive to find the one."

However, these findings don't discount the importance of ethical non-monogamy, she stated in the exclusive press release. "Nearly 1/3 of singles (31%) have had a consensually non-monogamous relationship at some point. Below are the most popular alternative relationship styles for Gen Z. Couples who tapped the relationship styles below reported more clarity in relationship desires and needs, a desire to be more open sexually, becoming more emotionally mature and a better sex life.

1. Monogamish (21%): Committed relationship that allows sexual variety with others

2. Polyamory (11%): Where relationship partners agree they may have a romantic relationship with other people

3. Open relationships (13%): A committed primary relationship that openly allows for romantic and/or sexual activity with other

4. Swinging (12%): Expanding an exclusive romantic relationship to seek out other sexual partners together

So, it's safe to say polyamory isn't in its flop era and if anything, it's leading the baes to kinkier, more authentic lives.

But not every single American is expanding their sex life. Just over one in five of today’s singles (21%) state that they don’t want a sexual relationship right now.

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