Love beyond boundaries: Narrative of individuals in consensual non-monogamous relationships
Christian C. Leoparte & Carol C. Maaliw
Abstract
This study aimed to explore and describe the lived experiences of individuals engaged in consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationships in Quezon Province, Philippines, focusing on how they experienced love, commitment, relational dynamics, and societal perceptions within a predominantly monogamous cultural context. Using qualitative phenomenological research design and narrative analysis, the study employed snowball sampling to recruit participants aged 20 years and above who were actively involved in CNM relationships. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Thematic Narrative Analysis guided by Consensual Non-Monogamy Theory, Queer Theory, and Intersectionality Theory. Findings revealed that participants emphasized open communication, honesty, mutual consent, and negotiated boundaries as essential elements in sustaining their relationships. Although they encountered social stigma, prejudice, and misunderstanding from family and community, they demonstrated resilience, emotional growth, self-awareness, and authenticity in navigating multiple partnerships. Participants described CNM not merely as a relational structure but as a space for empowerment and relational freedom grounded in transparency and respect. The study was limited to a small number of participants within Quezon Province and utilized snowball sampling, which may restrict generalizability; however, it contributes to the limited regional literature and offers insights for inclusive psychosocial programs and mental health support services.
Keywords
polyamory, social stigma, emotional well-being, relationship dynamics
Author information & Contribution
Christian C. Leoparte. Corresponding author. 4th Year BS Psychology Student, College of Sciences, Technology and Communications Inc. Email: 20220242@cstc.edu.ph
Carol C. Maaliw. 4th Year BS Psychology Student, College of Sciences, Technology and Communications Inc. Email: 202205341@cstc.edu.ph
“All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.”
Disclosure statement
The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest related to this study.
Funding
This work was supported by the affiliated institution of the authors through the CSTC Research and Development Office, particularly through its Research Committee. Additional support was provided through the affiliation with the Psychology Department, which contributed to the conference registration and presentation fees.
AI Declaration
The author declares the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the writing of this paper. Specifically, the author utilized QuillBot, Grammarly, and Gemini to assist in grammar checking, paraphrasing, and improving sentence structure to ensure clarity and coherence. The author takes full responsibility for the proper review, accuracy, and integrity of all content generated with the aid of these tools.
Notes
This paper has been presented in the 3rd International Student Research Congress (ISRC 2026).
Acknowledgement
The authors extend their sincere gratitude to the participants of this study who willingly shared their lived experiences in consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationships. Their openness, honesty, and willingness to reflect on their personal journeys provided the depth and meaning that shaped this research. Through their narratives, this study was able to explore the complex relational dynamics, identity, and emotional experiences beyond traditional relationship structures.
The authors would also like to express their deepest appreciation to their research adviser, Mrs. Ma. Creselda A. Aala, RGC, CHRA, for her guidance, patience, and continuous support throughout the completion of this study. Her insights and encouragement played a vital role in the development of this research. Furthermore, the authors extend their sincere gratitude to Mr. Argelou Paderes, RPsy, RPm, for his academic support and for fostering an environment that encourages meaningful and relevant research.
Lastly, the authors are grateful to the faculty, the institution, and the CSTC Research Ethics Board Committee for their support, guidance, and approval of this study. Their commitment to upholding ethical standards and their collaboration with the department significantly contributed to the successful completion of this research.
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Cite this article:
Leoparte, C.C. & Maaliw, C.C. (2026). Love beyond boundaries: Narrative of individuals in consensual non-monogamous relationships. International Student Research Review, 3(1), 112-134. https://doi.org/10.53378/isrr.218
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) International License.
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