The Story of Polyamory: A Narrative Inquiry of a Polycule

Abstract

This study explored the lived experience of polyamorous individuals in a unit (polycule) as a group and as individuals. The literature review investigated the extant research on polyamory and consensual non-monogamy while also highlighting the lack of information when compared with monogamous relationships. As non-monogamy becomes more common, research and scholarship must keep up with trends to help educators, therapists, social workers, and others understand the complexities of these relationships. This work provides an in-depth look at the nuances and issues faced by a polyamorous group and its’ individuals. This narrative inquiry is comprised of one group activity and individual interviews with nine people in one polycule. Conclusions include a discussion of the polycule’s sense of community and positive experience of interdependence.