African American Consensual Non-Monogamy

This book offers a critical and in-depth exploration of how consensual non-monogamy (CNM) intersects with African American culture, identity, and relationship norms, and offers a framework for redefining love and relationships in the African diaspora. Drawing on multiple theoretical traditions and historical research, as well as personal narratives and case studies, this text explores the joys, struggles, and transformative potential of CNM within the diversity of the African American community. Across five chapters, Dr. Christopher Smith defines the CNM landscape and dismantles pervasive myths; reconstructs a corrective history of African American relational life, examines how race, gender, class, sexuality, religion, and mental health intersect; maps the dimensions of decolonizing love and healing from minority stress; and equips readers with practical strategies for building community within CNM networks. Each chapter concludes with differentiated reflective prompts and guiding principles tailored to therapists, community organizers, educators, and practitioners alike. Addressing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding non-monogamy, particularly in the African American community, this book illustrates how non-monogamy can be utilized as a tool for self-liberation, emotional fulfillment, and the renegotiation of power dynamics in love and intimacy, expanding the possibilities of intimacy and connection in the 21st century. This book is intended for students and practitioners across a range of fields, including sex therapy, counseling, psychology, anthropology, cultural studies, Black studies, human sexuality, and clinical social work. It is also relevant to policymakers, educators, community leaders, activists, and advocates, and those with a general interest in diverse relationships.