Communication Patterns Among Male Couples with Open and Monogamous Agreements

Male couples in open relationships tend to have as equally fulfilling relationships as monogamous male couples; however, less is known about communication differences between monogamous and open couples. Because couples with open agreements permit sex with outside partners, they must navigate different relationship issues than monogamous couples, and this can translate to differences in communication. We therefore examined differences between cisgender men in monogamous versus open relationships regarding communication about sexual agreements, safety agreements, breaking of sexual and safety agreements, the disclosure of broken sexual and safety agreements, and general relationship communication. Using a sample of 395 couples, we found that while certain aspects of communication are different for monogamous couples compared to open couples, similarities also exist. Specifically, we identified no differences in how explicitly couples discussed their sexual and safety agreements, attitudes toward communication about safety agreements, and mutual avoidance and withholding communication. However, monogamous couples had more positive attitudes toward communication about sexual agreements. The results were mixed on the perceived impact that broken safety agreements had on communication with the primary partner. Our results are interpreted with attention to relationship well-being and implications for safer sex practices.