A newly-coined subdivision of polyamory, known as 'hotwifing', is seemingly taking over in the US.
Yes, another day, another relationship trend!
Like something straight out of a Louis Theroux documentary - coincidentally, his new feature Inside the Manosphere premiered on Netflix this week - guys who are so ridiculously proud of their wives' looks are allowing random males to jump into bed with them, for the better of their relationship, bizarrely.
According to a new study conducted by intimacy platform Wifey, 71 percent of 1,000 surveyed couples in 'committed' relationships are experiencing a 'stronger emotional bond with their partner' after introducing somebody else into their marital bed.
Advert
An equal amount claim this experiment has improved their sex lives.
'A form of consensual non-monogamy'
"Hotwifing is a form of consensual non-monogamy in which a woman in a committed relationship explores intimacy with another partner, with her partner's full knowledge and encouragement," the researchers shared.
"What this suggests about modern relationships: Couples exploring non-monogamy aren't throwing out the rulebook. They're rewriting it together, with trust, boundaries and communication at the center."
How is 'hotwifing' different from cheating?
The Wifey team explained how open communication is the all-important factor.
They said: "The defining difference from infidelity isn't what happens. It's what comes before: the conversation. Everything is discussed, agreed upon, and defined on the couple’s own terms."
'It makes us crave each other more'
Podcasters Lacy and Dan reflected on their own shenanigans for the eyebrow-raising report.
"It makes us crave each other more, almost," was their opening gambit. "I don't think that's something people who are not in this type of relationship really understand. They think you compare it to the experience, but the truth is you use it to enhance what you have together."
Despite feeling comfortable in their unconventional situation, the pair did concede that jealousy is inevitable.
They jointly added: "It's really how you handle it. If you communicate with your partner and work through it, your experiences will be better. It's a building block for your relationship."
Certified sexologist Dr Tara concurred, highlighting how monogamy-avoiding individuals 'over-communicate' and as a result, this 'emotional literacy' fortifies the relationship.
How is 'hotwifing' different from swinging?
While hotwifing involves just one person carrying out sexual acts with someone outside the relationship, swinging is seen as more of a 'team sport' with all parties getting involved.
It's also somewhat more sociable, as swingers tend to 'be friends both in and out of the bedroom'. In many cases, the couples will go out and get to know each other before getting into the swing of it (pardon the pun).
However, hotwives don't necessarily feel the need to build a friendship with their sexual partners, and may want to have sex with a physically attractive male, regardless of his personality.
But with both, everyone involved knows their roles and communication is key in making sure it all runs smoothly.
Topics: Sex and Relationships, US News
Dan Seddon