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.
| Description | Interview for media |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | As part of the research on non-monogamous families and relationships, an interview was conducted for the media channel Folha de S. Paulo - UOL in the article titled "Casais de diferentes gerações vivem relacionamentos abertos" (20/07/2024). The interview focused on the historical, cultural, and generational aspects of non-monogamous practices, exploring how different social contexts and life stages shape experiences of consensual non-monogamy (CNM). The intended purpose of this media engagement was to share research findings with a broader audience and contribute to public discussions on diverse relationship models. By highlighting generational perspectives on open relationships, the interview helped challenge common assumptions and broaden understanding around CNM practices. The impact of this activity can be seen as relevant, considering it helps raise awareness and spark conversations on non-monogamous family arrangements and parenting. The media coverage can also lead to future visibility of the project's outcomes in the next stages of the research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/equilibrio/2024/07/casais-de-diferentes-geracoes-fazem-acordos-para-dr... |
| Description | Presentation of the IUAES Comission of Global Feminisms and Queer Politics |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | As part of this research, Antonio Cerdeira Pilão delivered a presentation titled "Non-Monogamous Parenthood: Polyamory, Bisexuality, and Law" during the Global Feminisms and Queer Politics Commission meeting. The purpose of this presentation was to raise awareness of the project and to share the first reflections from the interviews conducted in this research. The presentation played an important role in starting the analysis of the information produced so far, which revealed the significant role bisexuality plays in shaping multiparenting arrangements. This insight points to the need for LGBTQ+ politics to pay greater attention to the social consequences of the legal uncertainty surrounding non-monogamous and multiparental families. Additionally, the presentation helped highlight how the concept of parenthood is not always clearly defined, often raising doubts and disputes among those involved in children's care and society more broadly. It was also crucial to emphasize the central role played by the women interviewed - particularly bisexual women - in building these multiparental setups. This challenges common stereotypes that associate polyamory with male desires for multiple wives and the passive, submissive role of women. The discussion sparked by this presentation has been instrumental in shaping the next steps of the research, offering new perspectives on the social and legal dimensions of non-monogamous parenting. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |