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Elsa Mari Almås

Professor Emerita Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences

Email: elsa.almas@uia.no
Mobile phone: +47 95 72 60 62
Office: C5132 (Jon Lilletuns vei 9, 4879 Grimstad, Norway)

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Background and experience

School psychology, Tvedestrand, 1981-1982.

Psychiatric department, Aust Agder Municipality Hospital, 1982-1984

Research Scholarship (NAVF), University of Bergen 1985-1987.

Private practice since 1988.

Associate professor at University of Agder 2001-2012

Full professor in sexology at University of Agder since 2012.

Member of working group for professional education in psychology since 2021.

Areas of responsibility

Cand Psychol from the University of Bergen, Norway, 1981. Specialist in Clinical Psychology since 1988. Specialist in Clinical Sexology NACS since 2002.

Private practice at Grimstad MPAT-Institute, Grimstad since 1988. Associate professor at University of Agder.

Charter Member of Norwegian Society for Clinical Sexology, president for two periods.

One of the initiators of the development of the Nordic Curriculum in sexology, and one of the organisers of the Nordic guidelines for sexological authorisation.

Together with Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad, originator of the education in basic sexology and sexological counselling at University of Agder.

Togehter with E.E.P. Benestad, research on gender issues and on traumatised sexuality. This work has been presented at national and international conferences.

With E.E. P. Benestad, author of a Norwegian textbook in sexology, published in 1997, revised in 2006; a book on gender issues, published in 2001, and a book on sex and sexuality published in 2004.

Several publications in journals on sexology as a clinical profession.

Teaching

I have been giving lectures in sexology since 1980.

Responsible for development og Nordic Curriculum in Sexology (1995-1996)

Member of working group for development or guidelines for authorisation of specialists in sexological counselling and in clinical sexology 1999-2002.

Responsible for program (60 ECTS) in sexological counselling at the University of Agder 2001-2021.

Member of Working group for development of professional education in psychology (360 ECTS) at University of Agder.

Research

Sexology as a profession, clinical sexology, rehabilitation of traumatized sexuality, gender incongruence, understanding of gender.

Academic interests

Clinical and subjective perspectives in research

Organisation of sexology as a profession

Issues related to gender incongruence

Clinical sexology

Rehabilitation of traumatised sexuality

Selected publications

Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Gianotten, Woet; Perelman, Luis; Wylie, Kevan (2022). The multiple roles of sexological organisations. Sexologies: revue europeenne de sante sexuelle - european journal of sexual health. ISSN: 1158-1360. doi:10.1016/j.sexol.2022.04.001.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2021). Treatment of Traumatised Sexuality. Frontiers in Psychology. ISSN: 1664-1078. 12doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.610619.
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). The debate on medicalization of sexology 2001–2010: a literature study on psychological treatment of sexual problem. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN: 1468-1994. 33 (3). s 249 - 262. doi:10.1080/14681994.2018.1462491.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Almås, Cecilie Brøvig (2015). Psychological treatment of sexual problems. A review of literature published between 2001 and 2010. Presentation of method and preliminary results. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN: 1468-1994. 31 (1). s 42 - 53. doi:10.1080/14681994.2015.1086738.
Almås, Elsa Mari (2015). Psychological treatment of sexual problems. Thematic analysis of guidelines and recommendations, based on a systematic literature review 2001–2010. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN: 1468-1994. 31 (1). s 54 - 69. doi:10.1080/14681994.2015.1086739.
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirell; Almås, Elsa Mari; Weingarten, Kaethe (2015). Sex positive ways of perceiving sexual turn-on patterns Part I - Understanding. The International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work. ISSN: 1446-5019. (1). s 26 - 45.

General outreach

Lectures, interviews, mediawork over the years since about 1980.

Research groups

ReSex: REsearch group in SEXology

Almås, Elsa Mari & Lapping-Carr, Leiszle (2026). Advancing Professional Education in Clinical Sexology: An Introduction to the Special Issue on Professional Education in Clinical Sexology. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 38(3), p. 729–740. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2026.2661795. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
This Special Issue of the International Journal of Sexual Health presents results from a survey on professional education in clinical sexology conducted by the WAS Committee for Professional Education in Clinical Sexology (WAS PES). WAS PES was first established in 2018 as a sub-committee of the Education committee, and in 2022 became a separate, ad hoc committee for professional education in clinical sexology. The committee includes members from all six of the regional federations of WAS. The committee chose to focus on clinical education and training, because this sub-field of sexology was identified as having the greatest gap between professional recommendations and training realities. The results of this survey confirm this view of professional education in clinical sexology. The survey demonstrated that there is much activity in this field, especially in Europe, North America, and South America. There are also strong programs in Australia, while programs are lacking in other parts of Asia/Oceania, the Eastern Mediterranean countries, and in both North and Sub-Saharan Africa. In this special issue, separate articles present the global results of the survey, and the results from each of the six WAS federations: Asia-Oceania Federation for Sexology (AOFS), Eastern Mediterranian Federation for Sexual Health (EMFeSH), European Federation of Sexology (EFS), Latin American Federation of Sexology and Sex Education Societies (FLASSES), North American Federation of Sexuality Organizations (NAFSO), and Sexual Health Africa (SHA). In addition to reporting on the results of the WAS PES survey, the authors of each regional report engaged in an epistemological study of the field of clinical sexology in their region. As a result, these authors highlight strengths and areas for improvement in their regions, noting the lack of governmental acknowledgement of sexology as particularly challenging. Still, a primary takeaway identified across regions is the positive and important role of clinical sexological training in enhancing WAS’s mission to advance sexual health and well-being for everyone.
Lapping-Carr, Leiszle; Matsui-Santana, Osmar & Almås, Elsa Mari (2026). Global Report on Professional Education and Training in Clinical Sexology. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 38(3), p. 741–760. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2026.2691987. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Background Sexual health is crucial to overall health and well-being, yet it is difficult for clinicians to get sufficient training in clinical sexology. Educating clinical sexologists is pivotal to improving sexual health for the public. There is limited research on sexology training availability and quality in many global regions. The current study aims to describe the state of professional education in clinical sexology around the world. Methods The World Association of Sexual Health (WAS) Professional Education in Sexology (PES) committee developed a survey for a cross-sectional study of sexology training programs, describing features such as availability, structure, and academic discipline. The web-based survey was distributed globally by PES committee members and the WAS Media committee electronically in three waves: March–October 2023, December 2023–June 2024, and September 2024–January 2025. Results A total of 344 responses from 60 countries went through careful data cleaning to ensure response validity. This yielded a final sample of 165 responses from 39 countries (Africa, n = 6; Asia-Oceania, n = 5; Latin America, n = 75; North America, n = 29; Europe, n = 48; East Mediterranean, n = 2) for inclusion in analyses. Primary reasons for exclusion were duplicate response (n = 47) and nonprogrammatic training offerings (n = 78). Surveys were mostly completed by training program directors and instructors. Most programs were certificate or continuing education courses (47%) or integrated into health professional degree programs (29%), although this varied by world region. Most programs were highly interdisciplinary, accepting students with a range of professional backgrounds. Discussion This is the first global survey of professional education in sexology and provides novel insights into features of clinical sexology training across major world regions. The results have potential to inform global standards in clinical sexology training programs and support accreditation efforts to enable access to high quality education in clinical sexology around the world. Study limitations and indications for future research are discussed.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Giami, Alain & Kontula, Osmo (2026). Professional Education and Training in Clinical Sexology in Europe. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 38(3), p. 804–818. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2026.2713157. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Objectives The aim of this study was to describe characteristics of professional education programs in clinical sexology, including organizers, academic affiliations, target groups, program levels, admission criteria, and jurisdictional recognition of sexology as a profession in Europe. This data will also improve our understanding of how sexology is used as a tool in education of counselors and therapists, and how sexology can be used to enhance sexual health. Methods In 2023, the WAS committee for Professional Education and Training in Clinical Sexology (WAS PES) conducted an international survey of educational programs. An inductive approach was used to generate data about educational programs worldwide. A structured questionnaire was designed in collaboration with the University of Agder and distributed digitally to WAS organizational and individual members. Initial recruitment occurred via the WAS newsletter, with subsequent participant recruitment leveraging snowball sampling to include programs that had not responded to initial recruitment efforts. Results The survey yielded 77 responses from 18 European countries. After excluding duplicates, non-clinical entries, and irrelevant submissions, 48 programs underwent further analysis. These included 10 full master’s degrees, 14 university-affiliated master’s-level courses, two sexological counseling certifications, 14 continuing education programs in psycho-sexual therapy, and eight short-term training courses. Conclusion The proliferation of clinical sexology training programs underscores the need for curricula that align with both national standards and practitioner competencies. While the European region offers diverse educational pathways, there is a critical need to standardize accreditation frameworks and clinical guidelines at the European level. The World Association for Sexual Health (WAS), in partnership with the European Federation for Sexology (EFS), European Society for Sexual Medicine (ESSM), and national societies, is positioned to lead this standardization effort in line with the Porto Proclamation of 2025.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Giami, Alain (2025). Gender identities and affirmation pathways among transgender individuals in Norway. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 40(2), p. 412–429. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2025.2464651. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Objectives: To identify subgroups of the Transgender and Gender Diverse (TGD) population and investigate if they follow similar or different affirmation pathways according to their self-reported gender identity. Method: A questionnaire used in France and Brazil was adapted to the Norwegian context and used for this study. Participants were recruited through therapists, TGD organizations, and social media. The data were analyzed based on seven categories -man, woman, trans man, trans woman, nonbinary, agender and undefined - which were derived from a content analysis of the self-reported definitions. Results: In total, 538 individuals responded the questionnaire, of which 336 participants provided a self-reported definition of their gender identity. The groups differed systematically along the binary – nonbinary continuum regarding changes in legal status, planning and obtaining health care, and overall satisfaction regarding their pathway. Conclusions: The results indicate that health care must be adapted according to gender self-identification and accommodate the different needs that are expressed by the participants. Lay Summary The study aimed to describe experiences of individuals who identify as Transgender and Gender Diverse (TGD) in Norway. Researchers wanted to explore whether TGD individuals follow similar or different paths when affirming their gender identity. A questionnaire originally developed in France, was adapted to fit the Norwegian context. Participants were reached out to through therapists, TGD organizations, and social media. A total of 538 people answered the questionnaire, and 336 of them provided a description of their gender identity. The responses were categorized into seven groups based on how the participants described their gender identity: man, woman, trans man, trans woman, nonbinary, agender, and undefined. The study found that these groups had different experiences when it came to legally changing their gender, accessing healthcare, and how satisfied they were with their journey of gender affirmation: People who identified as nonbinary or agender reported different needs and experiences compared to those who identified within binary male or female categories. The conclusion of the study was that healthcare services need to be more flexible and responsive to the individual needs of TGD people. This means recognizing and respecting each person’s self-identified gender identity and provide support that is tailored to the individual experiences and challenges.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Giami, Alain (2024). Gender Identity Orientation and Sexual Activity—A Survey among Transgender and Gender-Diverse (TGD) Individuals in Norway. Healthcare. 12(4). doi: 10.3390/healthcare12040482. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2023). Helsemyndighetene har forsømt sin oppgave når det gjelder å bygge ut tilbud i form av regionale kompetansesentre med tilstrekkelig faglig kompetanse. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 60(6), p. 384–386. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Alstad, Beate; Jørgensen, Berit Bulien; Eide, Bård; Jensen, Hilde Gunn & Mulelid, André [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2023). Behandling av traumatisert seksualitet via PLISSIT-modellen. Tidsskrift for psykisk helsearbeid. ISSN 1503-6707. 20(2), p. 147–158. doi: 10.18261/tph.20.2.6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
I denne artikkelen presenteres PLISSIT-modellen, og hvordan den kan brukes i psykososialt arbeid med klienter med traumatisert seksualitet gjennom erfaringer fra sexologiske rådgivere utdannet ved Universitetet i Agder. Informasjon er samlet gjennom et veiledningsforløp. Sexologiske rådgivere møter traumatisert seksualitet i ulike sammenhenger. Vi vil her presentere erfaringer fra kriminalomsorgen, sexologisk arbeid i kommune, barnevernsinstitusjoner, psykiatrisk poliklinikk, kurs for kvinner som har opplevd traumatisert seksualitet som følge av vold og overgrep og fra familievern.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Gianotten, Woet; Perelman, Luis & Wylie, Kevan (2022). The multiple roles of sexological organisations. Sexologies: revue europeenne de sante sexuelle - european journal of sexual health. ISSN 1158-1360. 31(3), p. 260–268. doi: 10.1016/j.sexol.2022.04.001. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
The research question behind this article is to analyse how missions and goals for sexological organisations on various levels are described and how they can complement each other. The missions and goals of global (WAS), regional (EFS), and national organisations in Europe are described and analysed by their statutes and bylaws. The results show that organisations on all levels are occupied with sexual health and rights, sexuality education, professional education, and standards of ethics. In addition, there seems to be a division of work between the various levels of organisations: Global organisations: Network of regional federations, sexual health promotion within international organisations such as the WHO and the UN, organising congresses for presenting new research and activist work (within non-governmental organisations-NGOs) and influencing national governments. Regional organisations: Network of national organisations, harmonisation of educational programmes, organisation of regional congresses for presenting new research and new treatment methods, development of projects between different countries. National organisations: Recruitment of members, education, supervision, professional support and development, organising national conferences and meetings, influencing politicians and health & education planners.
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2021). Treatment of Traumatised Sexuality. Frontiers in Psychology. 12. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.610619. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Based on therapeutic meetings with individuals who have experienced sexual violence and abuse, the challenge is how do we help these couples to establish sexual relationships on their own terms, without interference of defence or coping strategies they have used to protect themselves against the overwhelming experiences of violence or abuse in the past? This article will focus on therapeutic work with such couples and how to interact with them and support their efforts to establish satisfying sexual relationships, based on sexological experience as well as experience from work with traumatisation. The basis for our treatment is a modified version of William Masters and Virginia Johnson’s approach. The technique of sensate focus is central, modified by trauma theory, including the understanding of dissociation, and the need to integrate memories from different levels: somatic, emotional, and cognitive. The traumatised client needs special attention to the experiences of predictability and safety and respect due to their history of being transgressed against. The therapists must be aware of the issue of dissociation; different dissociated inner parts can play different roles in the interaction between client and therapist. While couples therapy is a necessary frame for this therapy, the therapist often needs to work with issues unique to each individual. Each partner must be able to identify their own responses and their own sexual needs and preferences. It may therefore be valuable to have a co-therapist. The central goal is for the clients to identify responses to stimulation as a here and now experience in a setting that feels safe and welcome.
Almås, Elsa Mari; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2019). Unødig patologisering. Forståelsen av kjønnsinkongruens bør bevege seg i ressurs- fremfor patologiorienter tretning. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 56(9), p. 686–687. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). The debate on medicalization of sexology 2001–2010: a literature study on psychological treatment of sexual problem. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 33(3), p. 249–262. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2018.1462491. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
The objective of this study is to describe the position of psychological treatment in an era where optimism surrounding pharmacological treatment has raised questions as to whether psychology should play a role in sexology at all. An investigation on the status of psychological treatment after the introduction of the PDE-5 inhibitors seemed due. A systematic qualitative literature review on psychological treatment of sexual dysfunction during the period of 2001–2010 was completed in 2012. A total of 261 articles were found, and organized according to their source, content, genre and year of publication. Thematic analysis was performed on selected groups of articles. Twenty-eight articles focused on medicalization of sexology. Thematic analysis revealed discussions regarding the following themes: This article will discuss these themes based on citations from the 28 articles. The main conclusions are that the medical model may be understood as a continuum, ranging from purely pharmacological treatment, to a medical profession that also integrates psychological and social issues. There is a widely held view that both medical and psychological methods are needed in order to achieve successful treatment.

View all works in NVA

Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). On queer aging and endings. doi: https:/www.imdb.com/title/tt38814457/. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Dokumentar film bygget over diktet "By the grqve of the unknown queer"
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). all about my father. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Dokumentar film, norsk, dubbet til russisk med etterfølgende omfattende Q&A med russisk talende skeive, aktivister og terapeuter
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). On Queer aging and endings. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Dokumentar film bygget over diktet "By the grqve of the unknown queer".
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). Euforia de género: una perspectiva profesional y personal. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). Euforia de género: una perspectiva profesional y personal. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2025). SEXOLOGY CAN FACILITATE SEXUAL HEALTH, GENDER HEALTH AND SAFETY, SEXUAL AND GENDER RIGHTS, AND SEXUAL AND GENDER JUSTICE. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Lapping-Carr, Leiszle; Giami, Alain; Smith, Anthony & Matsui, Osmar [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2023). Professional Education in Sexology. European Results. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2023). Transdebatten: Påstandene er respektløse og i høyeste grad kunnskapsløse. Psykologisk.no. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2023). Rapport om kjønnsinkongruens: Ukom utelater viktig kunnskap. Psykologisk.no. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2023). Måten vi er menn eller kvinner på har endret seg radikalt. Psykologisk.no. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Tokjønnsmodellen blir utfordret - rapport fra en personlig og faglig reise. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Bell v Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust [2020] EWHC 3274: Weighing current knowledge and uncertainties in decisions about gender-related treatment for transgender adolescents. Faculty Opinions. ISSN 2634-0836. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Eldre og seksualitet. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Review: Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8. Faculty Opinions. ISSN 2634-0836. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Hever fanen for fri kjønnsflyt. [Journal]. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). «Folkeopplysningen» om trans sprer farlig desinformasjon. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2022). Tokjønnsmodellen blir utfordret – rapport fra en personlig og faglig reise. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 59(9), p. 780–791. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2021). Kjønn, seksualitet og identitet. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2021). Behandling av traumatisert seksualøitet - etter PLISSIT-modellen. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Wilhelmsen, Agnes Cecilie; Lomsdalen, Christian & Follestad, Tore Holte (2021). Hva mener de politiske partiene om seksuell folkehelse? Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2021). Sexologi 2001-2021. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2021). Hva er seksuell folkeskikk? Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Giami, Alain (2021). World Sexual Health Day 2021. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Giami, Alain; Wylie, Kevan; Gianotten, Woet & Perelman, Luis (2021). Sexologcal organizations. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
WAS was founded in 1978 as an umbrella organization, based upon five regional federations (Africa, Asia- Oceania, Europe, Latin America and North America). Each of these five federations is based on membership by national organizations. Membership is also possible for Sexological institutes, NGOs and individuals. WAS is now offering membership to national and other regional organizations. It would therefore be of interest to see how organizations on different levels can supplement each other and work together. - The research question behind this presentation is whether there are different goals of work for organizations on different levels, and how they can support each other. Missions and goals of WAS, EFS and their national members are described and analysed by their statutes and bylaws. - The results show that organizations on all levels are involved with sexual health and rights, sexuality education, professional training, and standards of ethics. In addition, there seems to be a division of work between the different levels of organizations: WAS: Network of regional federations; sexual health promotion within international organizations such as WHO and UN; organizing congresses for presenting new research and activist work (within non-governmental organizations - NGOs) and influencing national governments. EFS: Network of national organizations; harmonization of educational programs; organizing regional congresses for presenting new research and new treatment methods; development of collaborative projects between different countries. National organizations: Recruitment of members; education; supervision; professional support and development; establishing ethical codes and deontological regulations; organizing national conferences and meetings; influencing politicians and health & education planners. Conclusion: Sexological organizations at national, regional and global level should find ways to cooperate based on division of work as illustrated by these results.
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2021). Non-binary gender: A developing identity and new research field? Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2021). Hva kan helsevesenet lære av en sexologisk tilnærming tl behandling? Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2020). Hvordan blir to-kjønnsmodellen utfordret? Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2020). Kjønnsbegeistring. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2020). Seksualitet ved kronisk sykdom. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2020). Coronabevisst flørt. Full text in Research Archive
Giami, Alain; Bolstad, Silje Håvard; Panjo, Henri; Almås, Elsa Mari; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2019). Access to health care among trans population in Europe Trans: Health and Citizenship. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Giami, Alain (2019). Paths leading to suicide attempts among Norwegian trans people. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Sexologisk dagsseminar. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Bolstad, Silje Håvard; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Giami, Alain (2019). Mental health in gender incongruent individuals in Norway. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Sexual Excitement and Attraction in Individuals who Experience Gender Incongruence in Norway. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 31, p. A35–A35. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2019.1661941. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Bolstad, Silje-Håvard (2019). Unngå unødig patologisering. Forståelse av kjønnsinkongruens bør bevege seg i en ressurs- fremfor patologiorientert retning. Tidsskrift Norsk Psykologforening. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Den positive seksualiteten - dens mangfold og gleder. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Euphoria. A workshop with Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad and Elsa Almås. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Pristed, Rikke; Vilponen, Tiina; Carola-Bure, Maria & Dogg, Sigga [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Symposium SY-28: Nordic SAR/SSA Sexual Attitudes Reassessment and Restructuring (SAR)/ Sexual Self Acknowledgement (SSA). Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Introduction and rationale: In this symposium development and practice of Nordic SAR/SSA (Sexual Self Acknowledgement) in professional sexological education will be presented by representatives from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway. Project/Population and settings: In 1995 the first Nordic Curriculum was presented in Iceland, and the first program in basic sexology and sexological counselling was established in Finland in 1996. In 1999 a Nordic framework for sexological education and authorization was presented in Norway, and in 2002 the first Specialists in Sexological Counselling and Clinical sexology were approved by The Nordic Association for Clinical Sexology (NACS). In this work, the original SAR, developed by Ted Mc Ilvenna in San Francisco in the 1970´s was introduced. The Nordic sexologists agreed that there was need for a more up to date version of SAR. It came to be named Nordic SAR/SSA. Outcome: It was up to each educational program to develop their versions of the SSA, and has been developed by different influences in the different Nordic countries. In this symposium, Rikke Pristed will present the Danish SAR/SSA, Tiina Vilponen will present the Finnish SAR/SSA, Sigga Dögg will present the Icelandic SAR/SSA, Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad will present the Norwegian SAR/SSA, and Maria Carola Bure will present the Swedish SAR/SSA. Discussion and recommendation: The main theme in all the Nordic versions of SAR/SSA is to be confronted with expressions of sexuality that may provoke negative attitudes, ignorance, counter-transference, and anxiety/fear. The students need to create a safe basis to become comfortable and competent in their meetings with all expressions of human sexuality; cultures, subcultures, and individual variations. Keywords: SAR, SSA, Nordic version Source of Funding: University of Agder Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement: None
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2019). Kjønn i bevegelse. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Euphoria. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Euphoria. Full text in Research Archive
Giami, Alain; Panjo, Henri; Scandurra, Cristiano; Valerio, Paolo; Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2019). Access to health care among trans population in Europe. Full text in Research Archive
Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Giami, Alain; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Paths leading to suicide attempts among Norwegian trans people. Full text in Research Archive
Bolstad, Silje-Håvard; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari & Giami, Alain (2019). Gender Self Definition for Measuring Transition Pathways in Norway. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard & Giami, Alain (2019). Mental health in gender incongruent individuals below 20 years of age. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Euphoria: A Workshop with Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad and Elsa Almås. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Euphoria. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). From GenderDysphoria to Gender Euphoria. A Workshop with Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad and Elsa Almås. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Pristed, Rikke (2019). Development of the Nordic SAR/SSA. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2019). Vårmøte/Årsmøte Sexologi som fag. In Jahr, Ernst Håkon & Thygesen, Ragnar (Ed.), Agder Vitenskapsakademi Årbok 2018. Novus Forlag. ISSN 9788283900279. p. 55–65. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari & Pristed, Rikke (2019). Norwegian SAR/SSA. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 31, p. A93–A94. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2019.1661941. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard & Giami, Alain (2019). Sexual excitement and sexual attraction in individuals who experience gender incongruence in Norway. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Development of Nordic SAR/SSA. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 31, p. A93–A93. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2019.1661941. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari & Pristed, Rikke (2019). Norwegian SAR/SSA. Full text in Research Archive
Enriques-Estrada, Victor Manuel; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar; Bolstad, Silje-Håvard & Giami, Alain (2019). “Born in the right or the wrong country?” A comparison of quality of life for the trans populations in Mexico and Norway with Born in the right or the wrong country. Comparison of the quality of life for the trans populations in Mexico and Norway with focus on psychological measures in relation to societal changes that has taken place. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Complex and challenging cases: disentangling and integrative approach. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2019). Understanding mind-body in clinical sexology. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Gender incongruence theory and practice. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2019). Meaning and motivation. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2019). Fagdag sexologi. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Uønsket seksuell oppmerksomhet. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). WAS 40th Aniversary. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Evidenced based research and treatment of traumatized sexuality. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Seksuell folkeskikk. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Sexologi som fag. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Proceedings, conclusions and consequences of the Norwegian expert groups on Transgender health. Full text in Research Archive
Melby, Kristian Leonard; Almås, Elsa Mari; Viki, Nicklas Poulsen & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2018). Muhabbet - a conversation in love and respect. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Autophilias revisited. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Almås, Elsa Mari; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Bolstad, Silje Håvard (2018). Født i «feil kropp» i feil land: Ny undersøkelse om kjønnsinkongruens i Norge gir alarmerende resultater. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). For opptatt av å ikke gjøre feil Manglende faglig innsikt preger Norsk psykologforenings holdning til behandling av personer med kjønnsinkongruens. Tidsskrift Norsk Psykologforening. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Eli, Stålesen (2018). Det er ingen overraskelse at det skjer seksuell trakassering. Forskning.no. ISSN 1891-635X. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Seksuell folkeskikk. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Menneskelige møter. Tidsskrift Norsk Psykologforening. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Om lengsel og lyst, nærhet og kjærlighet. Om vilkår for god seksuell helse. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Hvordan bli trygg på å snakke om seksualitet? Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Kjønnsbegeistring 2018. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Langfeldt, Thore & Torvald, Höjerback (2018). NACS 40 year histpry presentation. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Bolstad, Silje Håvard; Karlsen, Tor-Ivar & Giami, Alain (2018). Gender Health and Citizenship. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2018). Kjønnsbegeistring. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli; Giami, Alain; Gianotten, Woet; Perelman, Luis & Wylie, Kevan (2018). The multiple roles of Sexological organizations. Are there different roles on different levels: national, regional and global? Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari & Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli (2018). Sound Sexual Skllls (Muhabet). Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Ungdom: kjønn identitet og seksualitet. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Profesjonell tilnærming til seksualitet. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Kjønn og kjønnsidentitet. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Barns seksualitet. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Bekymringsfunn seksuell adferd hos barn. Barn og overgrep. Full text in Research Archive
Benestad, Esben Esther Pirelli & Almås, Elsa Mari (2017). Euforia del género. Full text in Research Archive
Almås, Elsa Mari; Aas, Fam Karine Heer; Hennum, Ragnhild Helene; Holter, Øystein Gullvåg; Larsen, Morten Kjerstad & Larsen, Arne Martin [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2019). Rapport fra Arbeidsgruppen mot mobbing og trakassering i UH-sektoren (UHRMOT). Universitetet i Agder. Full text in Research Archive Show summary
Universitets- og høgskolerådet (UHR) opprettet i februar 2018 en arbeidsgruppe som skulle bidra til å samordne UH-institusjonenes innsats for å kartlegge, forebygge og sikre gode systemer for varsling og oppfølging av mobbing, trakassering og seksuell trakassering for ansatte og studenter.

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Published May 12, 2025 5:53 AM - Last modified May 12, 2025 5:53 AM