Polyamory vs. Swinging

There is a BIG difference in philosophy between traditional "playcouple" swinging and real polyamous relationships. We support both as legitimate, but at Liberated Christians we are much more interested in polyamory than just the fun of playing in swinging. However at times, the difference can be more of attitude and they overlap in many areas. Also some people may want polyamory relationships with some people, and just swinging play with others.

The primary emphasis of polyamory is loving relationships with more than one other partner. The primary emphasis of swinging is "casual, non emotional sex." In reality, there is a large overlap between the two. However, if you get on a swinger's newsgroup or list, most polys find the conversation too forward, too aggressive and more sexually explicit oriented for comfort. On a poly newsgroup or list, most swingers will find the conversation too focused on relationships, and organizing various family combinations. Also it seems many poly's are seeking bisexual relationships and the predominate (but only slightly) spiritual belief of poly's is often Pagan. Swinging is often more heterosexual couples looking for other heterosexual couples and you will often find more in the closet Christians than Pagens.

Many swingers are really looking for polyamory, but since swing clubs and swing publications are far more numerous than polyamory, many people looking for real relationships identify with swingers but seek more than what traditional swinging offers. This is especially true of couples who only want to meet other couples for a more meaningful relationship that may include picnics and non sexual activities with the entire family. Swinging is virtually exclusively couples, other than groups out to make money off of the many single men who just want to watch people have sex. Polyamory groups are often open to all, although many groups seek relative gender balance.

Swinging : We have a very good relationship with The Lifestyles Organization, have presented at Lifestyle conventions, and get many referrals from them, especially regarding Christian issues. We also present at many other swing conventions. We totally support swinging, even though it is not our primary interest. In addition to our extensive swinging section of our web site, and the many links we have..

Polyamory : In addition to our workshops (no longer active) and vast materials on web site, we highly recommend publications of Loving More, especially:

The New Love Without Limits by Dr. Deborah Anapol. This book is "must have" reading for anyone interested in a polyamous swinger lifestyle. Deborah and Loving More teamed up to reprint her original classic, now with updated chapters, resources, and new material combined with the best of the original book. Perhaps the most widely read book on polyamory ever and certainly one of the best.

Loving More-The Polyfidelity Primer by Ryam Nearing Ryam's classic "how to" on group marriage and poly relationships in general. Focused primarily on polyfidelity with many good tips, worksheets, and advice on how to start a local group. Very good definitions of different styles of poly relationships.