What is 'consensual non-monogamy'?

• A. Secret affairs outside the relationship.
• B. Loyalty to one partner only.
• C. Agreements between partners to engage in sexual or intimate relationships with others.
• D. Lack of commitment.

Answer: (C)

Consensual non-monogamy means partners mutually agree to have sexual or intimate relationships with other people. The core element is consent and ongoing communication—setting boundaries, negotiating what is allowed, and revisiting those agreements as feelings or situations change. This differs from secret affairs, which involve deception; it also differs from monogamy, where the standard is exclusivity with one partner, and it isn’t inherently about a lack of commitment—many CNM arrangements involve strong, ongoing commitments to multiple people. Forms can include open relationships, polyamory, or swinging, all defined by the explicit agreements among those involved.