Psychology of Swinging

By: Genevieve Hawkins

Sexual swinging can be a difficult negotiation. Intimate couples who choose to openly bring other sexual partners into their relationship might have difficulty handling the people and the emotions involved. Swinging only works if there are high levels of trust and communication among everyone involved.

History

According to "The History of Swinging from the 1950's Until Now" by Dr. Robert McGinley, many cultures attached no stigma to sharing married partners. In America, wife-swapping gained notoriety in the 1950s and by the 1970s swing clubs had opened in California and New York.

Motivation

Couples might enter an open relationship out of boredom, curiosity, to please one partner, or to fulfill a fantasy. The sexual adventure may be a one-time event or lead to a lifestyle choice or a protracted relationship with a new sexual partner.

Considerations

Swinging involves other people who might not share your specific desires and feelings, meaning the relationships are unlike personal fantasies and can become complicated..

Warning

Communicate openly to your partner about swinging. Include in your discussion what behaviors are OK, with whom and of what gender and under what circumstances. Couples can break up due to a swinging incident that did no go as expected.

Membership

Many swing clubs only accept mixed gender couples for membership. You are not expected to do anything and you should not engage in activities that you do not feel comfortable doing.