Mariana Silva Rocha, PhD

Dr. Mariana Silva Rocha is an internationally acclaimed psychologist specializing in personality and sexual behavior. With over 12 years of experience in clinical practice, research, and education, she bridges scientific knowledge with practical guidance to promote understanding of human sexuality, relationships, and behavioral psychology. Her work emphasizes the integration of evidence-based research with culturally sensitive approaches to sexuality.

Specialization

Personality Psychology
Human Sexual Behavior
Relationship Dynamics
Sexual Development Across Lifespan
Behavioral Interventions in Sexual Health

Education

2006–2010: BSc in Psychology, University of São Paulo, Brazil
2011–2013: MSc in Clinical Psychology, University of Porto, Portugal
2013–2017: PhD in Personality and Sexual Behavior, University of Lisbon, Portugal

Professional Experience

2014–2016: Clinical Psychologist, Sexual Health Center, Lisbon
2016–2019: Lecturer in Personality and Sexual Behavior, University of Lisbon
2019–Present: Senior Researcher & Consultant, International Institute of Human Sexuality
Advisor for NGOs and governmental programs on sexual health and behavioral research

Selected Scientific Publications

Rocha, M.S., et al. (2021). "Personality Traits and Sexual Risk Behaviors: A Cross-Cultural Study." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 19(3), 145–162.
Rocha, M.S. (2019). "Understanding Sexual Desire Across Different Personality Profiles." International Journal of Sexual Health, 31(2), 89–105.
Rocha, M.S., & Fernandes, J. (2018). "Behavioral Interventions for Healthy Sexual Functioning." Behavioral Psychology Review, 14(1), 33–58.

Professional Memberships

International Academy of Sex Research (IASR)
European Association of Psychology and Sexuality (EAPS)
Brazilian Society of Behavioral Psychology (SBPB)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, WHO “Cross-Cultural Studies on Sexual Behavior” (2018–2021)
Consultant, UNESCO “Youth Sexuality and Personality Development” (2017–2019)
Coordinator, European Project “Personality and Sexual Health Education” (2020–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of online modules for understanding personality and sexual behavior
Designer of training programs for educators and clinicians on sexual health and behavioral psychology
Workshops on consent, sexual diversity, and healthy relationships

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on “Psychology Today Podcast: Personality and Sexuality”
TEDx Talk: “How Personality Shapes Sexual Behavior” (2022)
Contributor to BBC Radio: “Modern Sexual Behavior and Personality Studies”

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Rocha is committed to translating complex psychological and behavioral research into accessible knowledge for diverse audiences. Her expertise spans clinical practice, cross-cultural research, and innovative educational programs, making her a leading voice in understanding how personality influences sexual behavior.