Do men actually want multiple wives? A new study in Archives of Sexual Behavior shows surprising stats on monogamy, polygyny, and polyandry preferences.
Monogamy or Harem? What Modern Men and Women Really Choose
Is monogamy truly the only acceptable option for the Western mind? An international group of researchers published a study in the Archives of Sexual Behavior that sheds light on our hidden desires regarding relationships.
The Experiment Psychologists surveyed nearly 400 UK residents. Participants were asked to imagine a society where polygamy is legal and social norms are flexible. They answered two key questions:
- Would you want to be the center of such a family (one husband with multiple wives, or one wife with multiple husbands)?
- Would you agree to be one of several partners in such a union?
The Results: Reality vs. Fantasy
- Monogamy Wins: About 2/3 of participants (both men and women) stated they have no desire for multiple partners. They prefer exclusive, monogamous relationships.
- Male Interest: Among the minority open to polygamy, a distinct gender gap emerged. Men were 6 times more likely to desire multiple wives than women were to desire multiple husbands.
- Polyandry is Unpopular: The idea of polyandry (one woman having multiple husbands) proved unpopular with both sexes. Neither men nor women showed significant interest in this model.
Conclusion Even in fantasy scenarios, Western culture remains predominantly monogamous. However, when non-monogamy is considered, men are far more likely to envision themselves in the role of a "sultan," whereas the idea of sharing a partner appeals to almost no one.
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