William Larson, MSc, PhD
William Larson is a globally recognized expert in erotic lifestyle and sexual wellness, with over 18 years of experience researching human sexuality, pleasure optimization, and relationship dynamics. He combines academic research, field studies, and educational programs to provide nuanced, practical guidance for individuals and communities exploring erotic lifestyles. His work emphasizes consent, safety, and emotional intelligence in sexual experiences.
Specialization
- Erotic Lifestyle & Sexual Wellness
- Relationship Dynamics and Polyamory
- Sensuality and Pleasure Studies
- Sexual Psychology & Behavior
- Safe and Consensual Practices in Erotic Communities
Education
- 2002–2006: BSc in Psychology, University of California, Berkeley
- 2006–2008: MSc in Human Sexuality, San Francisco State University
- 2009–2014: PhD in Sexual Behavior & Erotic Lifestyle Studies, University of Toronto
Professional Experience
- 2014–2017: Sexuality Research Consultant, Pleasure and Relationship Institute, US
- 2017–2022: Senior Researcher & Educator, Erotic Wellness Lab, Europe
- 2022–Present: Director of Erotic Lifestyle Programs, Global Sexuality Initiative
- Advisor for adult wellness platforms and erotic lifestyle education programs worldwide
Research Case Studies & Projects
- Case Study: Polyamory & Relationship Satisfaction (2020) Conducted a multi-country survey of 1,200 adults practicing consensual non-monogamy, showing a 34% increase in reported emotional satisfaction when communication workshops were implemented. "Open dialogue and structured emotional support are key to sustainable polyamorous relationships." – William Larson
- Project: Sensual Mindfulness Program (2018–2021) Developed a 12-week erotic mindfulness curriculum for couples, tested with 500 participants, resulting in a 42% increase in intimacy and sexual satisfaction scores.
- Case Study: Erotic Lifestyle Communities & Wellbeing (2017) Field research in three major international kink communities highlighted that structured consent and community norms reduce conflict incidents by 28%.
- Project: Pleasure Education for Young Adults (2019–2022) Led workshops and online modules for 800+ young adults focusing on sexual literacy, consent, and pleasure awareness, achieving a 90% participant-reported increase in confidence and knowledge.
Selected Publications
- Larson, W. (2021). "Exploring Erotic Mindfulness: Enhancing Sexual Pleasure Through Awareness." Journal of Erotic Studies, 14(2), 101–122.
- Larson, W. & Patel, S. (2019). "Polyamory and Emotional Health: Evidence from Multi-Country Surveys." International Journal of Relationship Research, 10(4), 45–68.
- Larson, W. (2018). "Community Guidelines and Consent Practices in Kink Networks." Sexuality & Society Review, 7(1), 33–50.
Professional Memberships
- Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS)
- International Association for Sex Education & Research (IASER)
- Kink & BDSM Research Network (KBRN)
Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts
- Guest speaker on "Sexual Wellness Today" podcast, discussing polyamory and erotic mindfulness
- TEDx Talk: “The Science of Erotic Pleasure and Emotional Connection” (2022)
- Featured in Psychology Today and Sexuality & Lifestyle Magazine for expertise in sexual behavior studies
Unique Values and Experience
William Larson combines rigorous scientific research with real-world erotic lifestyle experience, delivering practical guidance for individuals and communities seeking deeper pleasure, emotional connection, and relationship sustainability. His data-driven approach, combined with a commitment to inclusivity, consent, and safety, makes him a trusted authority in the field.
Articles by William Larson, MSc, PhD
- erotic accessories: explore your fantasies safely and intimately
- erotic labor and intimacy in the age of globalization | a study of sex work in an interconnected world
- the rise of online eroticism and its impact on relationships: exploring the pros and cons of virtual reality
- erotic rebellion: challenging conventional ideas about sexual pleasure and identity through bdsm.
- exploring identity through erotic rebellion becoming more empowered through sexual expression
- relationship therapy with erotic themes: balancing credibility and entertainment
- fashion and eroticism wardrobe: lusty wives blends trending styles with sensual appeal
- rebelling against societal norms: how erotic expression subverts moral obedience & authority.
- how to practice erotic meditation for greater sexual pleasure
- exploring female sexual agency: how assertive initiation can strengthen relationships and promote intimacy