The Melanated Polycule: Attachment, Loyalty, and Community in Black Polyamory

Abstract

The purpose of this research explored the relational and cultural context of polyamory for Black people. It explored how the polycule navigated attachment dynamics, fairness and loyalty, and community utilizing attachment theory and contextual therapy as theoretical frameworks. Case study, a qualitative method, was utilized which included propositions to assist with pattern matching. Key findings included that attachment was not only shaped by family-of-origin, but loyalty was also not viewed as exclusivity, and fairness was understood as equity. Contextual therapy is an appropriate framework to utilize with this population due to its application to fairness, loyalty, and mutual care.