Swinging, or consensual non-monogamy, has become increasingly visible and widespread in recent years. But the question remains - is it cheating if you swing?
What is Swinging?
Swinging refers to couples who engage in sexual activities with people outside their relationship, with their partner's full knowledge and consent. Swinging activities can include:
- Attending parties together and swapping partners
- Joining group sex activities together
- Having a regular third partner for threesomes
Swingers argue that it's not cheating because there is openness, honesty and consent from all parties involved. They view it as a recreational activity couples do together.
It's Not Cheating if Your Partner Agrees
The key element that differentiates swinging from cheating is that all parties are aware and actively consent to the non-monogamy. If a partner secretly has sex outside of the relationship, that violates the trust and terms of the partnership.
But if a couple communicates and agrees to be non-monogamous together, they have redefined fidelity for their relationship. One can argue it is more unethical to break agreed-upon relationship rules than to stick to them.
Swinging Can Strengthen Relationships
Paradoxically, many swingers believe ethically non-monogamous activities can improve their connection. Witnessing a partner's pleasure with someone else can be bonding. And group activities lead couples to communicate more openly and honestly with each other.
Swinging Requires Trust
Swinging isn't for everyone. It often works best between partners that have an extraordinarily strong bond, deep trust and excellent communication. A healthy relationship is required for the lifestyle.
So Is It Cheating?
Given mutual consent and knowledge, swinging is not cheating from an ethical perspective. But partners should discuss boundaries carefully. And swinging should never be coerced - both parties must enthusiastically agree to make it work.
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