Study Reveals Jealousy Dynamics in Non-Monogamous vs. Monogamous Relationships
A recent study indicates that individuals in consensually non-monogamous relationships experience less jealousy than those in monogamous relationships. However, feeling less desirable than a partner can lead to stress in both types of relationships. The study, published in Evolution and Human Behavior, examines the concept known as mate value discrepancy (MVD). MVD refers to how people perceive their attractiveness, intelligence, or success compared to their partners.
Understanding Mate Value Discrepancy
In monogamous relationships, it is common to experience insecurity if one feels unmatched with their partner’s perceived value. The new research aimed to determine if this pattern persists in non-exclusive relationships, such as polyamory or open relationships. The study also explores how these feelings translate to relationship dynamics.
Research Methodology
The research team surveyed 512 individuals from 62 countries, comprising 312 from monogamous relationships and 200 from consensually non-monogamous relationships. Participants responded to questions about themselves and up to two romantic partners, assessing their perceived value and handling of jealousy and conflict. The study used established psychological metrics to evaluate mate value, guarding, conflict, and relationship maintenance.
Stress from Feeling Less Desirable
The study found that, in both relationship types, those who felt replaceable reported more conflicts and competition among same-sex rivals. This finding aligns with previous research on monogamous couples. Feeling less desirable often leads to insecurities and controlling behavior to prevent partner loss.
In non-monogamous relationships, the dynamic with secondary partners showed a shift. A perceived higher desirability than a secondary partner led to more conflicts and efforts to maintain that relationship, differing from interactions with primary partners.
Importance of Communication
The study highlighted that effective communication reduced relationship problems. Open discussions about attraction and jealousy were beneficial. In non-monogamous relationships, sharing happiness over a partner’s intimacy with others was helpful. Conversely, ranking partners hierarchically increased jealousy, rivalry, and resentment.
The results challenge the notion that non-monogamy eliminates jealousy entirely. While individuals in non-monogamous relationships are not more vulnerable to mismatched desirability, they aren’t more resistant either. Most relationship studies have focused on monogamous couples, as monogamous relationships are more widespread.
This research can aid counselors and educators in supporting individuals from diverse relationship structures, helping them navigate challenges effectively.
Reference: Swanson, F. L., et al. (2026). How perceived mate value discrepancies are related to jealousy, mate guarding, intrasexual competition, and partner conflict in monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships. Evolution and Human Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2026.106936.