FAKIM-CNM Families and Kinships in the Margins of the State: Consensual Non-Monogamies and Multi-Parenthood in the United Kingdom and Brazil
Lead Research Organisation:
Manchester Metropolitan University
Department Name: Research Ctr for Applied Social Sciences
Abstract
Consensual non-monogamies (CNMs), such as polyamory, open relationships, and relationship anarchy, despite their increasing
visibility, remain stigmatised. In particular, CNM relations that engage in multi-parenthood (MP) are poorly understood and lack legal recognition. This research will explore family and conjugal constellations that differ from heteronormative, monogamous, and couple-centric marriage standards in the UK and Brazil, investigating how CNM kinship practices and MP childcare activities are impacted by cultural dynamics, 'legal sensibilities', and lack of adequate legal provisions in the respective countries. The project deploys the concept of 'legal consciousness' as a critical tool to understand how CNM parents are interpreting and dealing with legal constraints in order to circumvent and resist harm and discrimination. This international comparative mixed-methods research will advance the understanding of neglected parenting populations, identifying the needs and intersectional inequalities around MP in CNM relations, as well as the beneficial aspects of novel child-rearing practices. It will advance social theory by engaging in a North/South dialogue and by enhancing socio-legal scholarship to go beyond the isolated analysis of the law, focusing upon the voices and reasonings of people affected by legal procedures and regulations. Since those alternative practices have so far received little attention in policy-making the project will provide urgently needed data and analysis to develop political, legal, and educational agendas, raising awareness about the potential benefits of integrative policies, legal changes, and anti-discrimination measures to enhance the well-being of those involved in CNM and MP. The fellowship will advance the ER's career path towards becoming an eminent expert in socio-legal studies and a leading scholar in sexuality and kinship studies, increasing his chances of securing a
permanent academic position.
visibility, remain stigmatised. In particular, CNM relations that engage in multi-parenthood (MP) are poorly understood and lack legal recognition. This research will explore family and conjugal constellations that differ from heteronormative, monogamous, and couple-centric marriage standards in the UK and Brazil, investigating how CNM kinship practices and MP childcare activities are impacted by cultural dynamics, 'legal sensibilities', and lack of adequate legal provisions in the respective countries. The project deploys the concept of 'legal consciousness' as a critical tool to understand how CNM parents are interpreting and dealing with legal constraints in order to circumvent and resist harm and discrimination. This international comparative mixed-methods research will advance the understanding of neglected parenting populations, identifying the needs and intersectional inequalities around MP in CNM relations, as well as the beneficial aspects of novel child-rearing practices. It will advance social theory by engaging in a North/South dialogue and by enhancing socio-legal scholarship to go beyond the isolated analysis of the law, focusing upon the voices and reasonings of people affected by legal procedures and regulations. Since those alternative practices have so far received little attention in policy-making the project will provide urgently needed data and analysis to develop political, legal, and educational agendas, raising awareness about the potential benefits of integrative policies, legal changes, and anti-discrimination measures to enhance the well-being of those involved in CNM and MP. The fellowship will advance the ER's career path towards becoming an eminent expert in socio-legal studies and a leading scholar in sexuality and kinship studies, increasing his chances of securing a
permanent academic position.
