Open Marriages Are A Form Of Relationship - 1043 Words

Open marriages are a form of relationship first brought into the public eye by Alfred Kinsey in the 1960s. Since then, the idea of approved extra-martial affairs have become even more popular, despite the uneducated critics hollering about it being an insult to the institution of marriage, or a way to justify cheating on one’s significant other. As open marriages start to become a more feasible option for couples looking to explore their sexuality, a common question always seems to come up; this inquiry, in fact, will be the purpose of the following text. To begin, I use examples from the 2004 biographical film Kinsey, directed by Bill Condon and produced by Gail Mutrux. While integrating discussion from Tristan Taormino and her book Opening Up: A Guide to Sustaining Open Relationships, I introduce the concept of sociosexuality with the help of Lars Penke’s Sociosexual Orientation Inventory. In creating discussion with the above names, I aim to demonstrate just what doe s make for a successful open relationship. In the film Kinsey (Condon Mutrux, 2004), there is a clear divide between what constitutes a successful and unsuccessful open relationship. Alfred Kinsey and his wife Clara Macmillan both engage in extramarital affairs, yet remain close physically, emotionally, and sexually. Alternatively, Clyde Martin (whom, it is worth noting, at one time engaged in an affair with both Kinsey and his wife) starts a fight with another man, Paul Gebhard, after finding out Mrs.Show MoreRelatedEssay Is Monogamy the Best Form of Marriage?588 Words   |  3 PagesIs Monogamy the Best Form of Marriage? In the United States, marriage is a commitment two people make for the rest of their lives. The average American marriage lasts seven years. Well over half of all marriages end in divorce (Francouer, 72). 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