Is monogamy really the best relationship dynamic for everyone? Are people honest with themselves, their lovers, or even their spouses about monogamy? Apparently they are not, due to the seemingly common phenomenon of infidelity in today's society. This is why I will explore alternative relationship dynamics and the pros and cons of monogamy, polyamory, and other non-monogamous lifestyles. The idea of ​​non-monogamy seems to be on people's minds, as it has appeared in popular culture lately, with shows like "Big Love" and "Sister-Wives." Why shouldn't the topic interest the public? It affects everyone, affects how we form romantic relationships with each other, and influences the future of American family dynamics beyond traditional pairing. While many people in American society do not consider any relationship style other than monogamy to be legitimate, we often think of people other than our partners in romantic or sexual ways, and some people may be better suited to a non-monogamous relationship dynamic. To support this conclusion, this article will explore the various styles of non-monogamy, examine the influence of genetics and biology on our relationships, and counter common arguments against non-monogamy, to demonstrate that it is a viable relationship option. In discussions of marriage and relationship styles, one controversial issue has been non-monogamous relationships in American society. On the one hand, some argue that monogamy should be considered the only viable option. From this perspective, many people believe that non-monogamous relationships are immoral and a threat to family and society. On the other hand, however, there is the thesis that expectations of monogamy establish f...... middle of paper ......promiscuities." Nature Genetics 36.12 (2004): 1326-1329. Academic Research Completed .EBSCO Web. July 24, 2011. Newitz, Annalee. New Scientist 191.2559 (2006): 44-47. EBSCO Web, July 13, 2011. Web July 2011. .Thompson, Anthony P. “Extramarital Sex: A Review of research literature." Journal of Sex Research 19.1 (1983): 1-22. EBSCO Web. Genetic variation in the vasopressin receptor 1a (AVPR1A) gene is associated with pair-bonding behavior in humans. " PNAS Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 105.37 (2008): 14153-14156. PsycINFO. EBSCO. Web. 24 July 2011.