Practices of Polyamorous Relationships in Thai Society

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of individuals engaged in polyamorous relationships in Thai society. “Polyamory” here refers to forms of romantic or sexual relationships involving more than one partner, with the knowledge and consent of all parties. The research focuses on three main questions: (1) the reasons and conditions for entering polyamorous relationships and participants’ self-perceptions, (2) lifestyles within the social, romantic, sexual, and work domains, and (3) social reactions and the coping strategies of those in such relationships. The study draws on in-depth interviews with five participants, representing diversity among heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual groups. To protect participants’ privacy, the interviews were conducted online.

The findings reveal that the processes of entering polyamorous relationships varied widely in terms of motivations and conditions and were characterized by ongoing negotiations and the management of personal feelings in relation to social contexts. From the participants’ perspectives, “polyamory” does not have a fixed or formulaic definition but is grounded in open communication, mutual agreement, voluntariness, and honesty among all parties. The participants faced stigma and prejudice stemming from monogamous norms in Thai society; however, most expressed positive views of their own identities. These positive experiences illustrate the dynamics of negotiating against social pressures and biases, shaped by individual backgrounds, gender identities, and resources. The polyamorous relationships of the participants further reflect the intersectionality of power, class, gender, and capital, which shape each person’s relationship patterns, experiences, and opportunities. The study also highlights that the practice of polyamory in Thai society represents negotiations with mainstream culture and social morality, rather than a straightforward imitation of Western models.