Coercive Monogamy

Coercive monogamy arises when individuals feel pressured into monogamous relationships due to external expectations, whether from partners or society. This pressure can manifest in ultimatums or emotional withdrawal, leading people to question the validity of their relationships despite personal happiness. The societal belief in the "relationship escalator" often exacerbates these feelings, pushing individuals to conform to traditional milestones like marriage, even when it may not align with their true desires.