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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Polygyny and Polyandry?

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Polygyny and polyandry are two forms of polygamy, which involves having multiple spouses. The main difference between the two lies in the gender of the spouses involved:

  • Polygyny: In this form of polygamy, one man is married to several women. This practice is more common and has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history.
  • Polyandry: In this form of polygamy, one woman is married to several men. Polyandry is relatively less common and is found in fewer cultures.

Both polygyny and polyandry are considered less common in today's society, as most developed countries practice monogamy. However, instances of serial monogamy, where a person has multiple partners over time, have been described as a form of polygyny or polyandry.

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  • What is the Difference Between Polygyny and Polyandry?
  • Comparative Table: Polygyny vs Polyandry

    • Comparative Table: Polygyny vs Polyandry

    Polygyny and polyandry are two forms of polygamy, which involves having multiple spouses. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

    Feature Polygyny Polyandry
    Definition Polygyny is the practice of having multiple wives, where a man marries more than one woman. Polyandry is the practice of having multiple husbands, where a woman marries more than one man.
    Types Sororal polygyny: A man marries multiple women who are sisters.
    Non-sororal polygyny: A man marries multiple women who are not related as sisters.    		 Fraternal polyandry: A woman marries multiple brothers.
    Non-fraternal polyandry: A woman marries multiple husbands who are not related as brothers.
    Causes - Surplus of females compared to males.
    - Women contributing economically to the family.
    - First wife forcing the husband to bring in a second wife to reduce her workload.
    - Childlessness of the first wife leading to the addition of a second wife.    		 - Scarcity of women.
    - Heavy bride price.
    - Poverty and sterility of men.

    Both polygyny and polyandry are less common in today's society, as most developed countries practice monogamy.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.