The practice of monogamy is believed to offered emotional security and protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, according to a new study, young American couples, married and unmarried, don't agree to the concept of monogamy.Miscommunication and misunderstanding about this concept is quite common among American couples.

While commenting on the study findings, co-study author Jocelyn Warren, a research associate at the Oregon State University (OSU), stated, "Other studies have looked at perceptions related to monogamy, but this is really the first one that explores the discussions that heterosexual couples are, or aren't, having about monogamy.

“Miscommunication and misunderstandings about sexual exclusivity appear to be common.”Research findings
To arrive at this startling conclusion, Warren collaborated with Marie Harvey, a professor of public health at OSU.

They collected data by interviewing 434 heterosexual couples, married and unmarried, aged between 18-25 years.

Researchers were surprised to find that among 40 percent couples, only one person reported that he/she had made monogamy agreement before entering into the relationship while the other partner refused having knowledge about any such agreement.

Despite being explicitly agreeing to be faithful, nearly 30 percent reported having cheated on their partner.

Couples, who reported being faithful to their partner did it due to emotional reasons rather than to honor any agreement. Study authors added that this lack of communication on monogamy is making young couples indulge in risky sexual behavior.

"Couples have a hard time talking about these sorts of issues," wrote authors. Young couples should be advised about safe sex Study researchers concluded in their report that even if a person is sure about faithfulness of his/her partner, physician should advise them to practice safe sex as it’s tough to say whether their partner agrees or not.

"Monogamy comes up quite a bit as a way to protect against sexually transmitted diseases. But you can see that agreement on whether one is monogamous or not is fraught with issues," said Harvey. The new study findings will be appearing in the upcoming edition of the ‘Journal of Sex Research’ online.