Martin Kuznets, PhD

Dr. Martin Kuznets is a leading researcher and educator in sexual kink and fetish practices, combining psychological expertise with extensive field research. Over the past 12 years, he has conducted numerous studies on the social, psychological, and physiological aspects of alternative sexual practices, contributing to safer, consensual, and informed sexual expression. Dr. Kuznets is dedicated to advancing understanding of human sexual diversity through research, education, and media engagement.

Specialization

Sexual Kink & Fetish Practices
BDSM Dynamics and Consent Psychology
Sexual Behavior Research
Therapeutic Approaches to Alternative Sexuality
Online Sexual Communities & Subcultures

Education

2005–2009: BA in Psychology, University of Toronto
2009–2011: MSc in Human Sexuality, Institute for Advanced Sexual Studies
2011–2015: PhD in Sexual Behavior & Fetish Studies, University of Amsterdam

Professional Experience

2015–2018: Sexual Behavior Researcher, Kinsey Institute
2018–2022: Lecturer in Alternative Sexual Practices, University of Amsterdam
2022–Present: Director of Research, Center for Sexual Diversity Studies
Consultant for sexual health NGOs on kink-aware therapy and education

Research Cases & Project Results

Project: "Consent and Communication in BDSM Communities" (2020–2021)
Result: Surveyed 1,200 participants; found that structured negotiation and aftercare significantly reduce risk and enhance psychological well-being. Published in Journal of Sexual Behavior.
Case Study: "Online Fetish Communities and Mental Health" (2019)
Result: Longitudinal study showing positive social support correlates with lower anxiety and improved self-acceptance among fetish community members.
Project: "Fetish Practices Across Cultures" (2018)
Result: Comparative study in 6 countries; identified universal patterns in role-play and dominance/submission dynamics; informed culturally sensitive sex education programs.

Selected Quotes

"Understanding the psychological frameworks of kink is essential not only for researchers but also for educators and therapists supporting alternative sexual expression." – Martin Kuznets, PhD

"Consensual and informed practice within fetish communities can serve as a model for communication and negotiation in broader sexual contexts." – Martin Kuznets, PhD

Selected Scientific Publications

Kuznets, M., & Lee, A. (2022). "Risk Management and Emotional Wellbeing in BDSM Communities." Journal of Sexual Behavior, 49(3), 321–342.
Kuznets, M. (2021). "Fetish Practices and Identity Formation: A Cross-Cultural Study." Archives of Sexual Behavior, 50(7), 2715–2732.
Kuznets, M., & Santos, R. (2019). "Negotiation Patterns in Kink-Aware Therapy." International Journal of Sexual Health, 31(4), 415–430.

Professional Memberships

Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS)
International Academy of Sex Research (IASR)
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, UNESCO “Global Kink-Aware Education” Initiative (2020–Present)
Consultant, WHO Sexual Health Diversity Task Force (2018–2022)
Advisor, European BDSM Awareness & Safety Project (2017–2021)

Work on Educational Programs

Creator of online training modules for therapists on kink-informed counseling
Developer of sexual diversity workshops for universities and NGOs
Instructor for international seminars on consent, negotiation, and risk-aware practice

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on BBC World Service: "Kink and Consent: Modern Perspectives"
TEDx Talk: "Beyond Stigma: Understanding Fetish Communities" (2021)
Featured on the "Sexual Diversity Today" podcast

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Kuznets uniquely integrates empirical research with practical education, advocating for destigmatization and inclusivity within sexual diversity. His work bridges academic rigor, community engagement, and therapeutic application, making him a leading voice in kink-aware sexual education.