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Sanjay Kulkarni, PhD

Dr. Sanjay Kulkarni is a globally recognized researcher and educator in romantic relationships, intimacy, and relationship psychology. With over 18 years of academic and field experience, he specializes in evidence-based strategies to improve relationship satisfaction, communication, and conflict resolution. His work bridges rigorous research with practical applications for couples, therapists, and educators worldwide.

Specialization

  • Romantic Relationship Dynamics
  • Couples Therapy and Counseling
  • Intimacy and Emotional Connection
  • Conflict Resolution and Communication Skills
  • Cross-cultural Relationship Studies

Education

  • 2000–2004: BSc in Psychology, University of Mumbai
  • 2004–2006: MSc in Clinical Psychology, Tata Institute of Social Sciences
  • 2006–2010: PhD in Relationship Psychology, University of Oxford

Professional Experience

  • 2010–2013: Relationship Counselor, Mumbai Family Health Center
  • 2013–2018: Senior Research Fellow, Center for Relationship Studies, University of Oxford
  • 2018–Present: Director of Relationship Research, Global Intimacy Institute
  • Consultant for international NGOs on relationship health programs

Research Cases & Project Highlights

  • Project: “Digital Interventions to Improve Communication in Long-Distance Couples” (2020–2022) Outcome: Increased communication satisfaction by 32% in participants; cited in Journal of Relationship Research. Quote: “Our findings suggest that structured digital interventions can significantly enhance emotional connection despite physical distance.” – Kulkarni et al., 2022
  • Project: “Cross-Cultural Romantic Relationship Dynamics in South Asia and Europe” (2017–2019) Outcome: Published data on differing conflict-resolution strategies; led to the development of culturally adaptive counseling modules. Quote: “Cultural context profoundly shapes the ways couples navigate intimacy and conflict.” – Kulkarni & Meyer, 2019
  • Project: “Couples Therapy Program for Young Adults” (2015–2017) Outcome: 78% of participating couples reported measurable improvement in satisfaction scores; program adopted by three regional counseling centers. Quote: “Early intervention with structured therapy modules can prevent relationship deterioration in young adults.” – Kulkarni, 2017

Selected Scientific Publications

  • Kulkarni, S., & Meyer, J. (2022). "Digital Communication Interventions in Long-Distance Relationships." Journal of Relationship Research, 15(2), 101–123.
  • Kulkarni, S. (2019). "Cultural Variations in Conflict Resolution among Romantic Couples." International Journal of Couple Therapy, 11(4), 211–234.
  • Kulkarni, S. (2017). "Young Adult Relationship Counseling: Evidence-Based Approaches." Journal of Clinical Psychology, 73(8), 897–912.

Professional Memberships

  • International Association for Relationship Research (IARR)
  • American Psychological Association, Division 43 (Society for Family Psychology)
  • European Network for Couples and Family Studies

Work on Educational Programs

  • Creator of “Healthy Relationship Skills” online modules for young adults
  • Workshops for couples on conflict resolution, intimacy, and emotional literacy
  • Training programs for counselors in cross-cultural relationship therapy

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

  • Guest lecturer at TEDx Oxford: “The Science of Emotional Connection” (2021)
  • Featured expert on BBC Radio 4: “Modern Romantic Relationships”
  • Regular host on the “Love & Connection” podcast series

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Kulkarni combines rigorous empirical research with practical counseling insights. His cross-cultural experience and data-driven approach provide couples with tools to strengthen intimacy, communication, and conflict management. He emphasizes culturally sensitive, evidence-based interventions that produce measurable improvements in relationship satisfaction.

Articles by Sanjay Kulkarni, PhD

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