The Dilemma of Coalition Instability in Consensual Nonmonogamy

James Beggan provides a fascinating integration of two fields of study that have never before been brought together. By using game theory as the conceptual rationale for analyzing polyamory and other forms of open relationships, the author provides an important and novel framework for understanding what is rapidly becoming a legitimate and popular form of romantic and sexual expression. His focus on coalition formation in triads clarifies the challenges inherent in relationships that involve more than two people. His extensive and up-to-date literature review and historical analysis of consensual nonmonogamy will serve as a valuable reference for students, researchers, and therapists operating in a variety of disciplines.

-- Scott T. Allison, Professor of Psychology & IRB Chair, Editor of Heroism Science, @HeroesToday, University of Richmond

James Beggan has provided a theoretically driven analysis of a clinically important topic. Managing romantic and sexual relationships among more than two people is relevant given the change in relationship configurations in today’s world. His approach, which is tied to sophisticated game theoretical ideas, is highly readable and will appeal to researchers, clinicians, and students in a number of fields. He illuminates how the success of consensually nonmonogamous relationships can be affected by social and psychological factors including social comparison processes among partners as well as their gender and sexual orientation. He also offers meaningful and helpful suggestions for how practitioners and therapists can work to resolve conflicts that originate in consensually nonmonogamous arrangements.

-- Sheila Garos, Associate Professor of Psychology, Texas Tech Univer