In Context: 5 Web Perspectives On A Story In The News

Gingrich outed on open marriage request

(The Globe and Mail) Leader of the Republican Party, Newt Gingrich's wife revealed that the presidential candidate wanted an "open marriage" while they were together. Marianne Gingrich told ABC News' Nightline last week that she refused to go along with Mr. Gingrich's proposal to have a mistress alongside their marriage. The interview was scheduled to air just two days before the presidential primary in South Carolina, a state renowned for its strong conservative Christian views. Gingrich's family requested ABC refrain from airing the interview and intruding on his personal life. The candidate's public scandal has triggered debate surrounding the idea of "open marriages."

1.

Individual growth equates to marital success

Psychology Today
In this article on Psychology Today, David J. Ley (Ph.D.) looks at what makes for a healthy, happy marriage. Research published by Arthur Aron and Gary Lewandowski found that the degree to which a marital partner helps an individual grow was the single greatest factor in determining an individual's happiness within a marriage. Ley writes that this goes hand in hand with the ideas presented in Nena and George O'Neil's book Open Marriage. While many people believe that the idea of an open marriage strictly refers to sexual relationships outside of marriage, the O'Neils also discussed how open relationships provide external outlets for married couples to learn and grow as individuals.

2.

Online resource for sexually open individuals

Life on the Swingset
This website provides first-hand advice for individuals interested in exploring beyond the boundaries of a monogamous relationship. A couple involved in an open relationship share their experiences through advice columns, forums, blogs and podcasts. They aim to provide information to those simply looking into the idea of open relationships, as well as those who have been engaging in open sexual acts for several years. The site advocates for open communication, between those in a relationship, as well as among the greater 'swinger' community.

3.

Advice: Top ten things to know before starting an open marriage

DivineCaroline
This article by Iddo Perry on DivineCaroline explores a list of top ten ideas that couples should discuss prior to starting an open relationship. It recommends that couples become informed, and set out very clear rules before engaging in any sexual behavior. Both partners need to be on the same page. The advice also suggests couples take action to protect themselves against sexually transmitted diseases, and must work to maintain trust and honesty within their relationship.

4.

Polyamory advocate group

Canadian Polyamory Advocacy Association
The Canadian Polyamory Advocacy Association advocates on behalf of Canadians who practice polyamory, defined as having more than one intimate relationship at a time with consenting individuals. The non-profit society, which started in 2009, promotes government, legal and social acceptance of those who practice polyamory, and serves as a support centre for those engaging in such relationships. It advocates for the rights of individuals to make their own choices regarding their sexual experiences.

5.

Opinion: Open marriages don’t work

Huffington Post
Rachel A. Sussman is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in relationships. From her past experiences working with couples, she says open marriages don't work. She writes that generally, when an open marriage is proposed, the spouse who is suggesting the open marriage is doing so because they are interested in having an affair or continuing with an affair. She says that the "faithful" spouse, on the other hand, generally will not agree to the proposal. If they do, they may be doing so to simply "win" the estranged spouse back.