CHRISTIAN AND MUSLIM PERSPECTIVES ON INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS: THE ROLE OF PERSONALITY AND RELIGIOUS BELIEF

This study examines attitudes toward different forms of intimate relationships—monogamy, polygamy, infidelity, and open relationships—and the social and personal factors that shape them. Drawing on a sample of 182 respondents, including 101 Georgians and 81 international participants, the research compares perspectives among Christians and Muslims while also considering personality traits such as introversion and extroversion. Using quantitative methods, the study identifies significant correlations between relationship preferences, religious background, and personality characteristics. Findings show that religion strongly influences relational choices: individuals favoring monogamy often reject alternative forms, while those open to polygamy are more accepting of infidelity and open relationships. Extroverted individuals appear more inclined toward non-monogamous arrangements, though this does not exclude support for monogamy. Overall, the results highlight the interplay of cultural, religious, and psychological dimensions in shaping how people define and evaluate intimate partnerships.