Book Description

Surveying the many forms of non-possessive intimate relationships, this book explains how these alternative lifestyle arrangements work, psychologically, and describes the benefits and risks for those involved within contemporary contexts such as swinging, threesomes, polyamory, and recreational sex clubs. The thought that one could have sex with outsiders with the consent and support of your spouse or significant other, and still love and make love with your primary partner, is a radical notion for most men and women. And yet, an increasing number of married and unmarried couples are doing just this, and their relationships are flourishing as a result. Relax, It's Just Sex: Understanding Non-Possessive Intimate Relationships examines a relatively new form of intimate relationship that is increasingly popular among contemporary couples and singles. The book introduces the term "non-possessive intimate relationships" and shows from a psychological perspective how these arrangements work, emotionally and cognitively, for the individuals involved. Licensed clinical psychologist and relationship therapist Leslie Spurr, PhD, explores the psychologically issues involved and then takes a close look at various examples of the non-possessive intimate relationship style within several, mostly covert, contexts, in which relationship partners agree to provide each other with the freedom to engage intimately with outsiders. Written in a nontechnical, accessible style, Relax, It's Just Sex uses humor and references to popular culture, including films, novels, and songs, to engage the reader in content that is primarily informative but also entertaining. This important and eye-opening book makes clear the significance and reasons for the growing popularity of the non-possessive intimate relationship phenomenon and explains why and how this "lovestyle" may constitute a sexual revolution.