NRE Research
Karyn has been doing some amazing research into NRE for her PhD dissertation. It's so interesting we want to share some of it!
The Story
When it comes to relationships and love, there has been a dominant bias toward monogamy in research and therapeutic practices. While there is increasing interest and research on CNM, specific studies examining how individuals in CNM relationships experience new relationship energy (NRE) are notably lacking. NRE refers to the intense emotions and experiences that occur at the start of new romantic connections, and can lead to challenges such as jealousy and difficulty managing multiple emotional bonds, particularly for those new to CNM.
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The proposed research aims to explore the challenges posed by NRE within CNM relationships, guided by key questions about participants' perceptions of their partners' experiences, conflicts arising from NRE, and coping strategies used to manage emotional and relational challenges. The methodology will employ constructivist grounded theory, utilizing intensive interviews with participants from CNM communities to gather subjective experiences and identify common themes.
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The study's purpose is to clarify the emotional and relational dynamics during the NRE stage in CNM relationships, potentially aiding in the development of therapeutic interventions tailored to this relationship style. By understanding the processes and challenges associated with NRE, the research aims to contribute to the literature on CNM, normalize experiences within this context, and provide insights that can help mitigate the stigma often faced by individuals in CNM relationships.
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Additionally, the study is framed within attachment theory and needs theory, which will help interpret how individuals cope with emotional disruptions during NRE and how their relational needs influence their behaviors. Overall, the research seeks to enhance understanding of CNM dynamics and provide clinicians with the tools to better support clients navigating these relationships, ultimately addressing the cultural bias against nonmonogamous structures.
If you are interested in participating in this research via a one hour Zoom interview, please reach out to Karyn. If you are interested in reading the dissertation when you are done, you can also reach out to Karyn to get on the list of people interested in the final product.