Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Spring 5-2019

Faculty Advisor(s)

Amy Moors

Abstract

An integral part to sexuality science is bridging the research-outreach gap through the creation of public educational materials. While there has been a resurgence in empirical and clinical attention to consensual nonmonogamy (CNM), the distribution of its findings are not easily accessible. Recent studies have shown that 1 in 5 people report having engaged in a CNM relationship (polyamorous, swinging, and open relationships) in their lifetime (Haupert, Gesselman, Moors, Fisher, & Garcia, 2017). Meanwhile, the general public has yet to recognize its presence in mainstream culture. The goal of this project is to create a Consensual Non-Monogamy Fact Sheet, as part of the American Psychological Association Division 44 Consensual Non-Monogamy Task Force, to provide (1) an overview of recent research (e.g., prevalence, relationship qualities, mental health), (2) empirically supported recommendations for clinical practice and research, and (3) ways to reduce stigma surrounding these relationship styles. Using a mini-Delphi method, we outlined themes of converging information, engaged in reiterative feedback with experts, and condensed the most suitable information for a diverse audience into a concise, digestible fact sheet. In addition, the CNM fact sheet helps bridge the researchoutreach gap by addressing common misconceptions about CNM and serving as an introductory tool for those who are uninformed about the topic. Stigma surrounding CNM has led to a lack of empirical research (Conley, Matsick, Moors, & Ziegler, 2017) and clinical errors in treating individuals who practice CNM (Schechinger, Sakaluk, & Moors, 2018). This project addresses the need for evidence-based, accessible, and easy-to-read information on human sexuality.

Comments

Presented at the Spring 2019 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.

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