Societal views around relationships continue to change as more than a quarter of Londoners no longer believe the concept of monogamy is realistic in modern relationships, according to a recent survey.
The Modern Marriage Report, a survey undertaken by Rayden Solicitors, drew on insights from 1,000 UK respondents to examine how views on marriage are evolving.
Other statistics saw nearly a third of Londoners saying they would consider taking a marriage sabbatical, which is a temporary, agreed-upon break from the relationship to allow space and time for personal growth rather than separation.
Rayden Solicitors partner and mediator Che Meakins said: “What is becoming clear is that many couples are redefining what closeness and commitment look like.”
This could, in part, be due to the rise in popularity of dating apps such as Feeld, which describes itself as a dating app for the curious; those open to experiencing people and relationships in new ways.
Since 2022, the app’s user base has grown by 30% year on year, while other dating apps have seen their usage falling.
However, the arrangement is not for everyone.
A 25-year-old woman from Enfield, who wishes to remain anonymous, discussed her long-term relationship, and why polyamory would not work for her.
However, she also recognised there could be benefits to the situation.
She said: “Polyamory probably would not work for me because I do not think I would handle the jealousy particularly well.
“I imagine it could be great fun though, and good for exploring your sexuality and/or sexual preferences.”
Other changes to traditional relationships patterns also emerged in the survey.
If given the option to cohabit with the same legal rights as married couples, nearly a quarter of Londoners say they would not marry at all.
Also, over half of Londoners believing a couple should have a social media prenup, which involves a formal agreement on what can and cannot be shared online following a breakup.
Over half of Londoners say they would consider a sleep divorce, which is the practice of sleeping separately for better rest, with 20% already choosing to sleep apart.
Feature image: Samantha Gades/Unsplash
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