The Different Types of Polyamory Relationships

types of polyamory

Polyamory is fast becoming one of the most popular forms of datings, where you form intimate datings with more than one person.

Polyamory dating sites are specially designed to help match you with like-minded people. Whether you are new to polyamory or not, single or a couple, they are a gateway to brand new experiences.

With enough care, attention, and trust, polyamorous datings can last just as long and work just as well as traditional ones.

But for any polyamory dating to work, you need to find a type and structure that suits your needs. Let’s go through the different types of polyamorous datings and structures and separate fact from fiction.

Hierarchical Polyamory

Hierarchical polyamory is when more importance is placed on two people within the dating, known as the ‘primary dating.’

These two people are often in a committed, traditional relationship and share the same dating values, including marriage, children, sharing assets, and life goals, and often they live together.

Anyone outside of this primary dating is secondary. These people are involved in no-strings fun, friendship without the traditional commitment of dating.

Non-Hierarchical Polyamory

In non-hierarchical polyamory, no one is more important than the other. Everyone is equal and involved in decision-making, life goals, intimacy, and more. No two people’s connection ever takes center stage.

This type of polyamory typically requires more planning and consideration, as it’s important that each member feels valued and respected. That said, the benefits are that dating is healthy and works for everyone.

Mono-poly “Vee” Relationships

Another common polyamorous dating type is mono-poly, otherwise known as “vee” relationships. These include three people, where only one person identifies as polyamorous, while the other two members identify as monogamous.

So how does this work? Two monogamous people date the polyamorous person without ever dating each other.

Again, trust is highly important so as not to stop one person from feeling jealous or undervalued. A “vee” dating can also work with bisexual people who want to date both men and women at the same time.

Solo Polyamory

In this type of polyamorous relationship, you prioritize your own needs first before any of your partners. Often nicknamed as a ‘free agent,’ solo polyamorous people make their own decisions and life goals first, before consulting with other parties.

It’s a convenient type of relationship for many people because you can fulfill your dreams and desires (such as careers, kids, etc.) without committing to someone else’s ideals.

The Different Structures of Polyamorous Dating

No two polyamorous relationships are every quite the same. But they often share common setups or structures. Finding out which structure you’d prefer before joining polyamory dating sites will help maximize your success in finding like-minded people.

Triad Relationships

A triad relationship, also known as a throuple, is when three people are romantically or sexually involved with each other.

It’s one of the most popular structures of polyamory, where quite often, couples who want to reignite their relationship invite a new person into the mix.

Triads are one of the most common forms of polyamory, where quite often, couples who want to reignite their dating invite a new person into the mix.

Quad Relationships

A quad is when four people are involved, either together or as two couples, and combine to form a new relationship with one another.

Similar to ‘swinging,’ quads are dynamic setups and may include casual fun, friendship, and romance. In addition, they may allow committed couples to explore their fantasies, sexuality, and more together.

Single or Couple? Both!

Polyamory relationships are fast becoming one of the most popular forms of romance, offering amazing versatility and excitement.

Couples who use polyamory dating sites will often share a profile, making their motives for using the site very clear. For example, if you are single and interested in having fun with an already established couple, it’s a good idea to state this openly on your profile so that they can approach you.

Straight, Bisexual, Or Gay?

Polyamory relationships offer great versatility to couples, especially if they want to explore their sexuality with other people while still involving their partner.

For that reason, it’s common for straight, bisexual and gay people to form a “vee” polyamory relationship with one another.