Freja Nielsen, PhD
Freja Nielsen is a pioneering researcher and educator in the field of sexual roleplay, kink, and exploration. With over 12 years of experience combining academic research, clinical practice, and public education, she specializes in promoting safe, consensual, and informed sexual exploration. Her work bridges psychology, sexual health, and cultural studies to enhance understanding of adult sexuality in diverse contexts.
Specialization
- Sexual Roleplay & Kink Dynamics
- Consensual Non-Monogamy Practices
- Erotic Psychology & Consent Communication
- Adult Sexual Exploration & Education
- Safety, Ethics, and Risk Awareness in Sexual Play
Education
- 2005–2009: BA in Psychology, University of Copenhagen
- 2009–2011: MSc in Human Sexuality, University of Amsterdam
- 2011–2015: PhD in Sexual Roleplay and Exploratory Behavior, University of Copenhagen
Professional Experience
- 2015–2018: Sexual Health Consultant & Educator, Danish Sexual Health Center
- 2018–2022: Senior Researcher in Sexual Exploration, European Institute for Sexual Studies
- 2022–Present: Director of Sexual Roleplay Research Programs, Nordic Sexuality Institute
- Consultant and trainer for therapists and educators in erotic play safety and consent
Selected Research Cases and Projects
- Case Study: BDSM Communication & Consent Patterns (2019) Conducted an in-depth observational study of 150 adult participants practicing consensual BDSM. Found that structured negotiation scripts increased mutual satisfaction by 34% and reduced conflict incidents by 41%. Quote: "Clear, verbalized consent and pre-play discussion dramatically improve trust and enjoyment in roleplay scenarios." – F. Nielsen, 2019.
- Project: Erotic Roleplay in Long-Term Relationships (2020–2021) Developed and tested a 12-week workshop for couples exploring sexual roleplay. Post-program surveys showed a 28% increase in relationship satisfaction and 22% improvement in sexual communication metrics.
- International Survey: Kink & Exploration Behaviors (2021) Surveyed 2,000 adults across Europe on roleplay preferences, boundaries, and safety practices. Resulted in a publicly released guideline document now used by multiple sexual health NGOs.
Selected Publications
- Nielsen, F. (2022). "Negotiation and Safety in BDSM Practices: A Quantitative Study." Journal of Erotic Studies, 15(2), 112–134.
- Nielsen, F., & Sørensen, A. (2020). "Enhancing Communication in Sexual Roleplay: Workshop Outcomes." Sexuality & Culture, 24(5), 857–876.
- Nielsen, F. (2018). "Adult Exploration of Sexual Fantasies: Ethical and Psychological Dimensions." International Journal of Sex Research, 10(4), 301–322.
Professional Memberships
- International Society for Sexual Health (ISSH)
- American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
- European Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health Education (ENSRHE)
- Nordic Association for Kink and Roleplay Research
Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts
- TEDx Talk: "The Psychology of Roleplay and Adult Fantasy" (2021)
- Guest on "Kink & Mindfulness" podcast, 2022
- Lecturer at European Sexual Health Conference 2020–2023 on roleplay safety and communication
Unique Values and Experience
Freja Nielsen integrates evidence-based research with real-world sexual exploration practice, providing nuanced guidance on roleplay, consent, and erotic communication. Her hands-on workshops, publications, and cross-cultural research offer unique insight into safe, consensual adult sexual exploration, making her a trusted expert in the field.
Articles by Freja Nielsen, PhD
- how playful sexual engagement can break out of relationship routine and improve intimacy
- how to negotiate sexual power for greater mutual pleasure and equality in your relationship
- shared hobbies and leisure activities can indirectly impact sexual desire
- erotic roleplay: exploring symbolism and power dynamics in adult intimacy
- the powerful effects of curated music playlists on erotic scenes
- how feminist theory and erotic subversion challenge patriarchy in relationships
- exploring the impact of role play on gender roles in intimate relationships: tips for breaking free from stereotypes
- the benefits of structured roleplay in teaching adolescents about sexuality, intimacy, and relationships
- sexual power dynamics in intimate relationships: how it affects equality, mutual pleasure and emotional safety