Research Participation

Seeking Participants for a Research Study

I’m currently conducting a study on power dynamics in consensually non-monogamous relationships, specifically from the perspective of secondary or contingent partners — people who are romantically involved with someone who already has a primary partner.

If you are 25 or older and have been in this kind of relationship for at least 3 months, I’d love to hear from you.

This study is part of my doctoral research in Existential Psychotherapy at the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling (NSPC) in London.

What’s Involved?

Two confidential interviews — via video call or in person:

First interview: ~60 minutes
Follow-up interview (6 months later): ~30 minutes

We’ll talk about your experiences in the relationship, with a focus on how power shows up and shifts — especially in subtle ways. Your perspective will help deepen our understanding of relationship structures that often go unexamined in traditional research.

All information is kept strictly confidential and fully anonymised.
Your name and any identifying details will never be shared or published.

If you are interested in participating, please fill out the form below. If you need more information, please scroll past the form to the FAQ section or email me with any unanswered questions.

Fill out this form if you would like to be a participant in this research

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the purpose of this research?

This study is part of my doctoral work at NSPC and Middlesex University.
I’m exploring how power shows up in open relationships, especially for people who are not the primary partner. While research on non-monogamy has often focused on the primary couple and dynamics in their relationship, this study looks at more subtle, everyday shifts in power — and how they’re experienced by secondary or contingent partners.

What would participating involve?

There are two interviews:

The first takes place once you’ve been in the relationship for at least 3 months — it lasts about 60 minutes.
The second happens 6 months later and takes about 30 minutes.

You’ll be asked about your relationship experiences, especially around moments where power seemed to shift or play a role. Interviews can be done via secure video call or in person, depending on our locations.

What happens to my interview data?

Your audio recordings will be stored in a password protected file and then deleted after transcription. I’ll transcribe everything myself — no one else will access your interview. Your name and identifying details will be removed and replaced with a code and pseudonym.

All data will be kept confidential and anonymous, stored securely, and handled in line with the Data Protection Act and Freedom of Information Act (2000). If this research is published, your identity will not be revealed.

Are there any risks to taking part?

Talking about relationships and power can sometimes bring up strong emotions. If anything feels uncomfortable, you're welcome to pause or stop at any time. Otherwise, the main “cost” is just your time.

Are there any benefits?

There’s no direct reward, but some people find that reflecting on their relationship can be helpful.
You’ll also be contributing to better understanding of power in non-monogamous relationships — a perspective that’s still underrepresented in research, and sometimes misunderstood in the therapy world.

Do I have to participate?

Not at all — participation is completely voluntary.
You’re free to change your mind or withdraw from the study at any time, no questions asked.

If you choose to take part, I’ll provide a copy of this information and ask you to sign a consent form.

Who’s running this study?

This research is being conducted as part of my doctoral studies at the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling (NSPC) and Middlesex University. There is no external funding involved.

Who reviewed this study?

This project was reviewed and approved by the NSPC Research Ethics Committee on behalf of Middlesex University.

Will I be reimbursed?

Since this is an unfunded study, I’m unable to cover travel or other expenses. If we meet online, I’ll provide a secure video call link.