Understanding polyamory as a form of concurrency to enhance HIV programmes in South Africa: The need to re-conceptualise the partner reduction policy

Abstract

This paper discusses the sexual experiences of people involved in polyamorous relationships to determine the relation between polyamory and HIV/AIDS. The study was guided by social cognitive theory, constructivism, the meaning-making model and interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four emerging themes are discussed: sex practices in polyamorous relationships; the construction of sexual rules and agreements; the value of trust and honesty; and psychosocial support and services for polyamorists. The study concludes that polyamory does not pose risk to HIV. The paper suggests a reconceptualization of the partner reduction policy which was influenced by Morris and Kretzchmar’s (1997) mathematical model Further, the findings are crucial to social work practice in the area of HIV/AIDS and social work education, particularly in regards to anti-discrimination. Therefore, social work is called upon to be aware and sensitive to polyamorous relationships.