Bente Træen

• Fischer, Nantje; Graham, Cynthia A.; Træen, Bente & Hald, Gert Martin (2021). Prevalence of Masturbation and Associated Factors Among Older Adults in Four European Countries. Archives of Sexual Behavior. ISSN 0004-0002. doi: 10.1007/s10508-021-02071-z.
• Træen, Bente; Fischer, Nantje & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2021). Sexual variety in Norwegian men and women of different sexual orientations and ages. . Journal of Sex Research. ISSN 0022-4499. Show summary

  The purpose of the paper was to examine Norwegians’ incorporation of seven varied sexual acts. Data were obtained from a questionnaire survey of a probability-based web sample of 2,181 men and 1,967 women aged 18–89 years. Among seven acts of sexual variety, the most common sexual experiences were trying to watch pornography with a partner, engaging in sex in unusual places, and using sex toys. Older age was negatively associated with all acts of sexual variety. Regarding more unorthodox acts of sexual variety, heterosexual men’s sexual preferences involved having and desiring group sex, whereas heterosexual women’s sexual experiences and desires involved having sex in unusual places. Lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) individuals generally showed greater curiosity or experience of having group sex and engaging in BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, and sadomasochism) activities than heterosexual adults. However, while LGB men had a high preference for group sex activities, LGB women had more positive attitudes towards BDSM activity. Individuals appear to accumulate more acts of sexual variety over time, thus making the incorporation of sexual variety a function of age. This study supports the idea that sexual variety has expanded among those born from 1960 onwards.

• Strizzi, Jenna; Øverup, Camilla Stine; Cipric, Ana; Hald, Gert Martin & Træen, Bente (2021). BDSM: Does it Hurt or Help Sexual Satisfaction, Relationship Satisfaction, and Relationship Closeness? Journal of Sex Research. ISSN 0022-4499. doi: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1950116. Full text in Research Archive
• Øverup, Camilla; Strizzi, Jenna; Cipric, Ana; Træen, Bente & Hald, Gert Martin (2021). Appearance Satisfaction as a Predictor of Specific Sexual Problems and Associated Distress. Journal of Sexual Medicine. ISSN 1743-6095. 18(9), p. 1532–1544. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.06.019. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Appearance dissatisfaction is a sensitive issue and has been tied to depression, dissatisfaction in romantic relationships, and reduced sexual satisfaction. Aim: This study sought to examine associations between appearance satisfaction and specific sexual problems and related distress, testing also the moderating role of relationship satisfaction. Methods: A large web-sample of Norwegians in romantic relationships (N = 2,903) completed a one-time survey. Outcomes: Participants reported on their experience of five different sexual problems and associated level of distress. Results: We found that appearance satisfaction was associated with reporting fewer sexual problems, and specifically, with a smaller likelihood of experiencing problems with lack of enjoyment, lack of excitement, and lack of climax. Furthermore, appearance satisfaction was unrelated to overall sexual problem-related distress, but was associated with feeling less distress about lack of excitement and lack of climax. Relationship satisfaction did not serve as a moderator of the associations. Clinical Translation: These findings suggest the importance of attending to appearance satisfaction when working with clients with multiple sexual problems, particularly those related to excitement and enjoyment. Strengths and Limitations: Strengths of the study include a large sample of partnered adults and assessment of specific sexual problems and associated distress. A limitation is that outcomes were assessed using single items, rather than multi-item scales. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of examining the presence of sexual problems and associated distress separately, and to consider appearance satisfaction as a predictor of sexual functioning.

• Fischer, Nantje; Graham, Cynthia A.; Træen, Bente & Hald, Gert Martin (2021). Prevalence of Masturbation and Associated Factors Among Older Adults in Four European Countries. Archives of Sexual Behavior. ISSN 0004-0002. doi: 10.1007/s10508-021-02071-z..
• Træen, Bente & Fischer, Nantje (2021). Use of protection for unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections in six birth cohorts in Norway 2020: A descriptive study. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. doi: 10.1007/s12119-021-09879-w.
• Fischer, Nantje & Træen, Bente (2021). Prevalence of sexual difficulties and related distress, and their association with sexual avoidance in Norway. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. p. 1–14. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1926040.
• Træen, Bente & Thuen, Frode (2021). Non-Consensual and Consensual Non-Monogamy in Norway. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1947931. Full text in Research Archive
• Koletić, Goran; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Hald, Gert Martin & Træen, Bente (2021). Self-Assessed Effects of Pornography Use on Personal Sex Life: Results from a Large-Scale Study of Norwegian Adults. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611.
• Træen, Bente; Fischer, Nantje & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2021). Sexual intercourse activity and activities associated with sexual interaction in Norwegians of different sexual orientations and ages. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1912316. Full text in Research Archive
• Træen, Bente; Hansen, Thomas & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2021). Silencing the sexual self and relational and individual well-being in later life: a gendered analysis of North versus South of Europe. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 35(4). doi: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1883579. Full text in Research Archive
• Rossow, Ingeborg Margrete & Træen, Bente (2020). Alcohol use among older adults: a comparative study across four European countries. Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. ISSN 1455-0725. 37(6), p. 526–543. doi: 10.1177/1455072520954335. Full text in Research Archive
• Graham, Cynthia; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Lange, Theis; Hald, Gert Martin; Carvalheira, Ana & Enzlin, Paul [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Prevalence of sexual problems and associated distress in aging women across four European countries. Archives of Sexual Behavior. ISSN 0004-0002. doi: 10.1007/s10508-020-01742-7. Full text in Research Archive
• Fischer, Nantje; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Hald, Gert Martin; Carvalheira, Ana & Træen, Bente (2020). Sexual Satisfaction in Older Heterosexual Couples From Four European Countries: Exploring the Roles of Actual and Perceived Discrepancy in Sexual Interest. Journal of Sex Research. ISSN 0022-4499. doi: 10.1080/00224499.2020.1809615. Show summary

  Even though sexual activity frequently takes place with another person, research rarely focuses on how partners influence each other’s sexual lives. This study used the sexual dyad to compare the concept of actual versus perceived discrepancy in sexual interest and explored how each is related to older partnered individuals’ sexual satisfaction. Further, the study assessed the robustness of the association between sexual interest discrepancy and sexual satisfaction, if any, by controlling for emotional intimacy. The actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) using structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to examine 677 heterosexual couples ages 60 to 75 in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. Although a couple’s actual discrepancy in sexual interest was not predictive of female and male partners’ sexual satisfaction, perceived discrepancy was negatively associated with sexual satisfaction in both partners after controlling for emotional intimacy. This indicates that the subjective feelings of being sexually dissimilar seem to be more important to sexual satisfaction than the actual mismatch among partners in older heterosexual couples. Moreover, the finding that emotional intimacy is linked with sexual satisfaction underscores the importance of a broader perspective on sexuality among older adults.

• Schaller, Sidsel; Træen, Bente & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2020). Barriers and Facilitating Factors in Help-Seeking: A Qualitative Study on How Older Adults Experience Talking about Sexual Issues With Healthcare Personnel. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2020.1745348.
• Træen, Bente; Hald, Gert Martin; Fischer, Nantje & Janssen, Erick (2020). European older adults’ use of lubricants and medications to enhance erectile function. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 32(2), p. 81–93. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2020.1749210. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  What is the prevalence of using lubricants and medication to enhance erectile function among older adults, and what predicts such use? Survey data were collected in probability samples among 60–75 year-olds in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. In men, use of medication was highest in Norway (26%) and lowest in Portugal (12%). In women, use of lubricants was highest in Norway (31%), and lowest in Belgium (3%). Compared to those who had no sexual difficulties, use of medication/lubricants were higher in individuals with sexual difficulties. The findings contribute to an increased attention to the sexual health of older adults.

• Træen, Bente & Røysamb, Espen (2020). Compatibility of riders’ personality traits and the perceived personality of their horse. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin. ISSN 2333-522X. 9(2), p. 46–61.
• Hinchliff, Sharron; Carvalheira, Ana Alexandra; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Janssen, Erick; Hald, Gert Martin & Træen, Bente (2019). Seeking help for sexual difficulties: findings from a study with older adults in four European countries. European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. 17(2), p. 185–195. doi: 10.1007/s10433-019-00536-8. Full text in Research Archive
• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Hinchliff, Sharron & Træen, Bente (2019). Relationship Intimacy, Sexual Distress, and Help-Seeking for Sexual Problems among Older European Couples: A Hybrid Dyadic Approach. . International journal of impotence research. ISSN 0955-9930. doi: 10.1038/s41443-019-0214-z. Full text in Research Archive
• Fischer, Nantje; Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar & Hald, Gert Martin (2019). Mechanisms underlying the association between perceived discrepancy in sexual interest and sexual satisfaction among partnered older adults in four European countries. European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. p. 1–12. doi: 10.1007/s10433-019-00541-x. Full text in Research Archive
• Carvalheira, Ana; Graham, Cynthia; Stulhofer, Aleksandar & Træen, Bente (2019). Predictors and Correlates of Sexual Avoidance Among Partnered Older Adults among Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal . European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. 17(2), p. 175–184. doi: 10.1007/s10433-019-00540-y. Full text in Research Archive
• Træen, Bente; Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Hald, Gert Martin & Graham, Cynthia (2019). Extradyadic Activity in European Older Adults. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2019.1685085.
• Henning, Oliver Johannes; Landmark, Cecilie Johannessen; Træen, Bente; Svendsen, Torleiv; Farmen, Anette Huuse & Nakken, Karl Otto [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Sexual function in people with epilepsy: Similarities and differences with the general population. Epilepsia. ISSN 0013-9580. 60(9), p. 1984–1992. doi: 10.1111/epi.16311. Full text in Research Archive
• Træen, Bente; Kvalem, Ingela Lundin & Ohnstad, Ingrid (2019). Experiences of Non-Consensual Sex in Older Adult Men and Women in Norway, Denmark, Belgium and Portugal. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. 24, p. 113–139. doi: 10.1007/s12119-019-09630-6. Full text in Research Archive
• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Jurin, Tanja; Graham, Cynthia; Janssen, Erick & Træen, Bente (2019). Emotional intimacy and sexual well-being in aging European couples: A cross-cultural mediation analysis. European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. 17(2), p. 139–150. doi: 10.1007/s10433-019-00509-x. Full text in Research Archive
• Hald, Gert Martin; Graham, Cynthia; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Carvalheira, Ana; Janssen, Erick & Træen, Bente (2019). Prevalence of sexual problems and Associated distress in aging men across four European countries. Journal of Sexual Medicine. ISSN 1743-6095. 16(8), p. 1212–1225. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.04.017. Full text in Research Archive
• Træen, Bente; Øhrn-Finstad, Katrine & Røysamb, Espen (2019). Perfect riders. Personality, Perfectionism and Mental Health in Norwegian Competition Riders. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. ISSN 0737-0806. 75, p. 82–89. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.01.016. Full text in Research Archive
• Træen, Bente; Carvalheira, Ana; Hald, Gert Martin; Lange, Theis & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2019). Attitudes Towards Sexuality in Older Men and Women Across Europe: Similarities, Differences, and Associations with Their Sex Lives. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. 23(1), p. 1–25. doi: 10.1007/s12119-018-9564-9. Show summary

  The aim of the study was to explore attitudes towards sexuality and sexual behavior in older adults in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. A cross-sectional survey with representative samples of the population aged 60–75 years recruited through phone registers in Norway (676 men and 594 women), Denmark (530 men and 515 women), Belgium (318 men and 672 women), and Portugal (236 men and 273 women) was conducted. The data collection was carried out using an anonymous postal questionnaire. Four dimensions of attitudes towards sexuality were identified: ‘sex for love’, ‘sexual pressure in society’, ‘sex for well-being’, and ‘sexual changes and ageing’. Discriminant analyses identified three discriminant attitude functions: sex for well-being, sexual changes due to ageing, and sex for love. Portuguese men had positive attitudes towards sex as good for well-being in older adults but believed ageing was an obstacle to being sexual at this stage of life. Portuguese women believed sex was good for well-being and did not consider ageing an obstacle to sexual enjoyment. Norwegian men and Danish women believed changes in sexuality due to ageing were no obstacle to being sexual but did not believe that sex was good for well-being. The attitudes of Belgian and Danish men were largely inclined in the direction that sex is not particularly important for elderly people and that changes in sexuality occur due to the ageing process. Men and women were committed to the attitude of sex for love, although this was observed most in Belgian participants and least in Danish men. Positive attitudes towards sex for wellbeing and towards ageing and sexual changes correlated with less change in sexual interest and sexual enjoyment, and with increased frequency of intercourse and masturbation. To tailor successful sexual health interventions, attitudes of sexuality in older people should be addressed.

• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Jurin, Tanja & Hald, Gert Martin (2019). Seventy-five years old and still going strong: Stability and change in sexual interest and sexual enjoyment in elderly men and women across Europe. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 30(4), p. 323–336. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2018.1472704.
• Enoksen, Anette & Træen, Bente (2018). How gay men living with HIV experience and perceive HIV-stigma: A qualitative study. Scandinavian Psychologist. ISSN 1894-5570. doi: 10.15714/scandpsychol.5.e11. Show summary

  Since HIV’s arrival, it has been stigmatised which has resulted in severe consequences for those living with HIV. Surveys on individuals living with HIV suggest that this group’s physical health and lives has improved through medical advancements but that stigmatisation remains an issue. There is little Norwegian research on the experience of HIV-related stigma among gay men, a group proportionally at greater risk of infection. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate how HIV-related stigma is experienced and perceived by gay men living with HIV and how they deal with it. The study was conducted by interviewing 10 gay men living with HIV in Norway. The interviews were analysed through thematic analysis. Based on the narratives, the findings were organised into four themes and discussed as followed: ‘Encountered stigmatisation’, ‘Living with a secret stigma and the matter of disclosure’, ‘Self-Perception and self-stigma’, and ‘A sense of responsibility’. Contexts, connections, and implications of the findings are presented and discussed. HIV-related stigma is still experienced as an issue among some, but not all, gay men living with HIV. Self-stigma is reported as being the most prevalent issue. Suggested applications of the findings are presented.

• Træen, Bente; Carvalheira, Ana; Kvalem, Ingela Lundin & Hald, Gert Martin (2018). European Older Adults’ Use of the Internet and Social Networks for Love and Sex. Cyberpsychology : Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace. ISSN 1802-7962. 12(3). doi: 10.5817/CP2018-3-1. Show summary

  What is the prevalence of using the Internet for love and sexual activities among older adults across Europe, and what predicts such use? Data were collected in probability samples among populations aged 60–75 years in Norway (N = 1271), Denmark (N = 1045), Belgium (N = 991), and Portugal (N = 509) using postal questionnaires. A total of 36% of men and 15% of women reported having used the Internet for sex and love purposes, most often to watch pornography. The use of the Internet for various love and sex purposes was higher in participants who had a partner, who had masturbation activity and who were satisfied with their current level of sexual activity. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that use of the Internet to find committed partners, watch pornography, buy sex products or seek information or advice was lower in Portuguese men than men in Norway, Denmark, and Belgium. Tailored websites to promote both sexuality and how to preserve a committed relationship are likely to prove important for the aging population.

• Schaller, Sidsel; Træen, Bente; Kvalem, Ingela Lundin & Hinchliff, Sharron (2018). Linking the past and the present: constructing meaning from childhood emotional and sexual experiences towards present sexual well-being in older adults. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2018.1539227.
• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Hinchliff, Sharron; Jurin, Tanja; Carvalheira, Ana & Træen, Bente (2018). Successful aging, change in sexual interest and sexual enjoyment in couples from four European countries. European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. 15(10), p. 1393–1402. doi: 10.1007/s10433-018-0492-1.
• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Jurin, Tanja; Graham, Cynthia; Enzlin, Paul & Træen, Bente (2018). Sexual well-being in older men and women: Construction and validation of a multi-dimensional measure in four European countries. Journal of Happiness Studies. ISSN 1389-4978. 20, p. 2329–2350. doi: 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1.
• Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Træen, Bente; Markovic, Aleksandra & von Soest, Tilmann (2018). Body Image Development and Sexual Satisfaction: A Prospective Study From Adolescence to Adulthood. Journal of Sex Research. ISSN 0022-4499. 56(6), p. 791–801. doi: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1518400. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The aim of the current study was to explore whether developmental trajectories of body satisfaction from adolescence to young adulthood predicted measures of sexual satisfaction in young adulthood, even when controlling for important covariates such as gender, weight development, relationship status, mental health, and frequency of sexual intercourse and masturbation. Data were collected from a population-based prospective cohort of Norwegian adolescents (n = 2,587) over a period of 13 years in four waves (1992, 1994, 1999, and 2005; mean age = 14.9 in 1992, 57.3% women). Latent growth curves were estimated for body satisfaction and Body Mass Index (BMI). Men reported higher sexual satisfaction, sexual activity, baseline body satisfaction, and BMI than women. The developmental trajectories revealed a slight increase in body satisfaction and BMI from adolescence to young adulthood in both genders. Moreover, structural equation models showed that baseline body satisfaction in both genders predicted sexual satisfaction as a young adult, independent of relationship status and frequency of sexual activity. Neither the development of BMI nor of body satisfaction predicted sexual satisfaction. The results elucidate the vital role of body satisfaction in sexual satisfaction in adults and the importance of addressing body dissatisfaction in childhood.

• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Hinchliff, Sharron; Jurin, Tanja; Hald, Gert Martin & Træen, Bente (2018). Successful Aging and Changes in Sexual Interest and Enjoyment among Older European Men and Women. Journal of Sexual Medicine. ISSN 1743-6095. 15(10), p. 1393–1402. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.08.011.
• Prell, Emilie & Træen, Bente (2018). Minority Stress and Mental Health Among Lesbian and Bisexual Women in Norway. Journal of Bisexuality. ISSN 1529-9716. p. 278–298. doi: 10.1080/15299716.2018.1518180.
• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Janssen, Erick; Carvalheira, Ana; Hald, Gert Martin & Lange, Theis [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). Sexual Activity and Sexual Satisfaction among Older Adults in Four European Countries. Archives of Sexual Behavior. ISSN 0004-0002. 48(3), p. 815–829. doi: 10.1007/s10508-018-1256-x.
• Fischer, Nantje; Træen, Bente & Hald, Gert Martin (2018). Predicting Partnered Sexual Activity among Older Adults in Four European Countries: The Role of Attitudes, Health and Relationship Factors. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. p. 1–19. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2018.1468560. Show summary

  Aim: To investigate factors that predict partnered sexual activity in men and women aged 60–75 years from Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. Methods: Cross-sectional study including national representative samples of people aged 60–75 years from Norway (676 men, 594 women), Denmark (530 men, 515 women), Belgium (318 men, 672 women), and Portugal (236 men, 273 women). Data were collected by means of anonymous questionnaires. Results: Generally, across countries, the two most important predictors of partnered sexual activity were positive attitudes toward ‘Sex for well-being’, and sexual problems in the partner. Other important predictors of partnered sexual activity included positive attitudes toward sexual changes due to aging, previous sexual activity, and relationship happiness. Conclusion: The sexual function of the partner and people’s own sexual attitudes were highly predictive of partnered sexual activity.

• Træen, Bente (2018). Predictors of internalized homonegativity in Norwegian men who have sex with men (MSM). Scandinavian Psychologist. ISSN 1894-5570. 5(1). doi: 10.15714/scandpsychol.5.e2.
• Træen, Bente; Carvalheira, Ana; Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Janssen, Erick & Graham, Cynthia [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2017). Sexuality in Older Adults (65+)—An Overview of the Recent Literature, Part 2: Body Image and Sexual Satisfaction. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 29(1), p. 11–21. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2016.1227012.
• Træen, Bente; Hald, Gert Martin; Graham, Cynthia; Enzlin, Paul; Janssen, Erick & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2017). Sexuality in Older Adults (65+)?An Overview of the Literature, Part 1: Sexual Function and its Difficulties. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 29(1), p. 1–10. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2016.1224286.
• Fischer, Nantje & Træen, Bente (2016). Medisinstudenters intensjon om å tematisere seksualitet i behandlingsrommet. Scandinavian Psychologist. ISSN 1894-5570. 3(e14). doi: 10.15714/scandpsychol.3.e14.
• Træen, Bente (2016). Norwegian young adults’ attitudes toward and experience of kinky sexual activities. Scandinavian Psychologist. ISSN 1894-5570. 3(e15). doi: 10.15714/scandpsychol.3.e15.
• Henning, Oliver Johannes; Nakken, Karl Otto; Træen, Bente; Mowinckel, Petter & Lossius, Morten (2016). Sexual problems in people with refractory epilepsy. Epilepsy & Behavior. ISSN 1525-5050. 61, p. 174–179. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.05.038.
• Træen, Bente; Samuelsen, Sven Ove & Roen, Katrina (2016). Sexual Debut Ages in Heterosexual, Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Young Adults in Norway. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. p. 1–18. doi: 10.1007/s12119-016-9353-2. Show summary

  This study estimates sexual debut ages in young heterosexual, lesbian, gay, and bisexual men and women in Norway. A questionnaire survey was completed online by 27.2 % of a representative national web sample of 2,090 persons aged 18–29 years. Three self-selected samples of 924 respondents completed an extended version of the survey online. Lesbian and bisexual women reported earlier experience of orgasm through masturbation than heterosexual women (median 13.1 versus 15.2 years), and heterosexual men (median 13.5) reported earlier debut than heterosexual women. There was a statistically significant difference between heterosexual and lesbian and bisexual women’s age at the first experience of receptive vaginal sex (median 16.8 versus 15.4 years). As regards experience of insertive vaginal sex, a significantly higher percentage of heterosexual men than women, and of heterosexual and lesbian and bisexual women, reported experience. It was more common among lesbian and bisexual women than heterosexual women to have had oral sex with another woman, but in neither group did the cumulative percent reach 50% by the age of 29 years and the median could not be estimated. Gay and bisexual men reported earlier receptive anal sex debut than heterosexual men. With regard to insertive anal sex, gay and bisexual men accumulated experience earlier than heterosexual men, and lesbian and bisexual women acquired this experience earlier than heterosexual women. Compared to heterosexuals, LGB persons of both genders engage in more varied sexual activities. Lesbian and gay persons have same-sex experiences at an earlier age than bisexuals.

• Træen, Bente; Markovic, Aleksandra & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2016). Sexual satisfaction and body image: a cross-sectional study among Norwegian young adults. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 31(2), p. 123–137. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2015.1131815. Show summary

  Abstract Objective: To study the relationship between age, gender, body mass index (BMI), body image, and perceived intimacy with partner and sexual satisfaction in young Norwegian adults. Methods: A questionnaire survey was completed online by 27.2 % (n = 568) of a representative national web sample of 2,090 persons aged 18–29 years. Results: Women were more dissatisfied with their body than men and BMI increased with age. A negative body image correlated with BMI, particularly among women. There was no gender difference in reported sexual satisfaction and perceived intimacy with partner. The most important direct path leading to increased sexual satisfaction was from perceived intimacy with partner, followed by body image and age. By influencing body image, BMI and gender influenced sexual satisfaction indirectly. Being male increased the likelihood of having a positive body image, which in turn increased the likelihood of reporting being sexually satisfied. Additionally, a lower BMI increased the likelihood of being satisfied with one’s body, which in turn increased sexual satisfaction. Conclusion: Body image is clearly related to sexual satisfaction, particularly in women. However, body image is not associated with the perception of intimacy with one’s partner, which is the most important factor for feeling sexually satisfied.

• Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Træen, Bente & Iantaffi, Alex (2016). Internet Pornography Use, Body Ideals, and Sexual Self-Esteem in Norwegian Gay and Bisexual Men. Journal of Homosexuality. ISSN 0091-8369. 63(4), p. 522–540. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2015.1083782.
• Træen, Bente; Westerberg, Ane Cecilie; Ono Njøten, Mette & Røysamb, Espen (2015). Predictors of Self-Efficacy in Norwegian Competition Riders. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. ISSN 0737-0806. 35(10), p. 807–814. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2015.07.021.
• Carlsson, Catharina; Nilsson Ranta, Daniel & Træen, Bente (2015). Mentalizing and Emotional Labor Facilitate Equine-Assisted Social Work with Self-harming Adolescents. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal. ISSN 0738-0151. 32(4), p. 329–339. doi: 10.1007/s10560-015-0376-6.
• Træen, Bente; Noor, Syed W; Hald, Gert Martin; Rosser, B. R. Simon; Brady, Sonya S. & Erickson, Darin J. [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2015). Examining the relationship between use of sexually explicit media and sexual risk behavior in a sample of men who have sex with men in Norway. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology. ISSN 0036-5564. 56(3), p. 290–296. doi: 10.1111/sjop.12203.
• Carvalheira, Ana; Træen, Bente & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2015). Masturbation and Pornography Use Among Coupled Heterosexual Men With Decreased Sexual Desire: How Many Roles of Masturbation? Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. ISSN 0092-623X. 41(6), p. 626–635. doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2014.958790.
• Hald, Gert Martin; Træen, Bente; Noor, Syed W; Iantaffi, Alex; Galos, Dylan & Rosser, Simon (2015). Does Sexually Explicit Media (SEM) affect me? Assessing first-person effects of SEM consumption among Norwegian men who have sex with men. Psychology & Sexuality. ISSN 1941-9899. 6(1), p. 59–74. doi: 10.1080/19419899.2014.984516.
• Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Træen, Bente; Lewin, Bo & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2014). Self-perceived effects of Internet pornography use, genital appearance satisfaction and sexual self-esteem among Young Scandinavian adults. Cyberpsychology : Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace. ISSN 1802-7962. 8(4). doi: 10.5817/cp2014-4-4.
• Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Træen, Bente; Lewin, Bo & Alexandar, Stulhofer (2014). Self-perceived effects of Internet pornography use, genital appearance satisfaction, and sexual self-esteem among young Scandinavian adults. Cyberpsychology : Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace. ISSN 1802-7962. 8(4). doi: 10.5817/CP2014-4-4. Show summary

  This study examined the associations among the frequency of viewing Internet pornography, beliefs about how realistically pornography portrays sex, self-perceived effects of one’s pornography use, genital appearance satisfaction, and sexual self-esteem in young adults. Online data were collected from four convenience samples of university students from Norway and Sweden, members of a queer youth organization, and readers of an erotic magazine. Because of cultural similarities and the comparable magnitude and patterns of the bivariate correlations among the samples on the study variables, they were pooled into a single sample (N = 1,274). The majority of men (81.1%) and a minority of women (18.1%) reported at least weekly use of Internet pornography on their personal computers, whereas using a mobile phone or tablet was less common. Most of the participants had sought mainstream pornographic content. Those with a stronger belief in pornographic realism were more likely to perceive the effect of pornography use positively. A hypothesized relationship between self-perceived positive effects of pornography use and a higher level of sexual self-esteem was found for men but not for women. This result was partially due to higher satisfaction with genital appearance among the men who mainly watched mainstream pornography. Genital appearance satisfaction was linked to higher sexual self-esteem for women, but it was not related to the self-perceived effect of pornography use. The results indicate that pornography may expand personal sexual scripts for both men and women, and may have a positive, although modest, influence on the sexual self-esteem of young male adults.

• Træen, Bente; Noor, Syed W; Grey, Jeremy A.; Iantaffi, Alex; Rosser, Simon & Hald, Gert Martin (2014). Sexually Explicit Media and Sexual Risk Behavior in a Sample of Men Who Have Sex with Men in Norway. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. 18, p. 1038–1051. doi: 10.1007/s12119-014-9238-1.
• Carlsson, Catharina; Nilsson-Ranta, Daniel & Træen, Bente (2014). Equine assisted social work as a mean for authentic relations between Clients and their staff. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin. ISSN 2333-522X. 2(1), p. 19–38.
• Carvalheira, Ana; Træen, Bente & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2014). Correlates of Men's Sexual Interest: A Cross-Cultural Study. Journal of Sexual Medicine. ISSN 1743-6095. 11(1), p. 154–164. doi: 10.1111/jsm.12345.
• Træen, Bente; Hald, Gert Martin; Noor, Syed W; Iantaffi, Alex; Grey, Jeremy A. & Rosser, B. R. Simon (2014). The Relationship Between Use of Sexually Explicit Media and Sexual Risk Behavior in Men Who Have Sex with Men: Exploring the Mediating Effects of Sexual Self-Esteem and Condom Use Self-Efficacy. International Journal of Sexual Health. ISSN 1931-7611. 26(1), p. 13–24. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2013.823900.
• Bentzen, Anne Sofie & Træen, Bente (2014). Swinging in Norway in the Context of Sexual Health. Sexuality & Culture. ISSN 1095-5143. 18(1), p. 132–148. doi: 10.1007/s12119-013-9181-6. Show summary

  The aim of the study was to describe the sexual scripts related to ‘swinging’ in Norwegians with particular emphasis on issues related to STI prevention. We conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with 6 men and 6 women, including 5 heterosexual couples, 1 married man, and 1 single woman, all recruited from Internet groups for swingers. The results showed that the positive outcomes of swinging included the opportunity for participants to explore their own sexuality, see their partner have sex with others, and enhance their self-esteem. Swinging allowed them to act on secret fantasies and intrapsychic scripts. Negative attitudes towards male homosexuality, fear of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and fear of being exposed were reported as problematic consequences of the lifestyle. Furthermore, the swinger script was more clearly defined for clubs than for private settings. In private settings, the swinger script typically borrowed elements from available scripts outside the swingers subculture, such as friendship or dating scripts. The lack of rules to protect oneself from STIs among the older swingers, and among swingers in private settings, may represent a potential threat to sexual health.

• Træen, Bente & Schaller, Sidsel (2013). Seksualitet som tema blant norske psykologer i klinisk praksis. Tidsskrift for Norsk Psykologforening. ISSN 0332-6470. 50(2), p. 98–107.
• Træen, Bente & Schaller, Sidsel (2013). Talking to patients about sexual issues: Experiences of Norwegian psychologists. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 28(3), p. 281–291. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2013.768338.
• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Carvalheira, Ana & Træen, Bente (2013). Is Responsive Sexual Desire for Partnered Sex Problematic among Men? Insights from a Two-Country Study. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 28(3), p. 246–258. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2012.756137. Show summary

  In contrast to the body of research focusing on female sexual desire, there has been very little research into patterns of male sexual desire. This study addresses this deficiency in the literature by providing empirical answers to the following questions: (1) is there a pattern of responsive sexual desire—defined as being predominantly receptive to a partner’s initiation of sexual activity without initially desiring it—among men? (2) Is this pattern associated with lower levels of sexual health than a more spontaneous pattern of male desire?, and (3) Are existing clinical observations regarding possible causes of reduced interest in partnered sex useful for understanding the more responsive men’s sexual desire? A large online survey about men’s sexual interest was conducted in 2011 among 2,215 Norwegian and Portuguese men aged 18–75 years (the average age in the sample was 36.5 years). Sociodemographic, health-related, sociosexual, and relationship-related information was collected. Three distinct patterns of male sexual desire were observed: decreased (23.6%), responsive (2.5%), and spontaneous (73.9%) desire patterns. Men in the more responsive and spontaneous desire groups significantly differed from participants in the decreased desire group, as they reported significantly higher levels of sexual interest, sexual satisfaction, and frequency of sexual intercourse and were less likely to have experienced sexual health difficulties in the past 12 months. Interestingly, participants with more responsive and spontaneous desire patterns were indistinguishable in terms of a number of sociodemographic, health-related, sociosexual, and relationship-related variables. The sole predictor of the responsive sexual desire pattern was proneness to relationship-related sexual boredom. Clinical observations about the roles of negative emotions, relationship strain, and specific sexual arousal patterns (homoerotic, autoerotic and/or paraphilic) in the etiology of hypoactive sexual desire did not seem relevant for men with responsive desire.

• Træen, Bente & Thuen, Frode (2013). Relationship problems and extradyadic romantic and sexual activity in a Web-sample of Norwegian men and women. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology. ISSN 0036-5564. 54(2), p. 137–145. doi: 10.1111/sjop.12013. Show summary

  The purpose of this paper is to describe the prevalence of self-reported types of extradyadic romantic and sexual activity among adult Norwegians and to explore the role of infidelity in breaking up a permanent relationship. The results are based on 1,001 web interviews with persons ranging in age from 18 to 67 years. The majority of respondents reported having engaged in some kind of extradyadic romantic and/or sexual activity. Forty-five percent of the women and 39% of the men claimed they had experienced a previous breakup from a marriage or cohabiting relationship. Among those aged 50 years or older, the most important reasons for breaking up a previous relationship were infidelity (38%) and lost love (38%). More men (44%) than women (33%) reported infidelity. Respondents younger than 50 years were more motivated by boredom. Among respondents below the age of 50 years, the most frequently reported reasons for considering termination of a present relationship were quarreling (37%), poor sex life (29%), and “other” reasons (25%). Accordingly, infidelity was not identified as an essential factor for considering a breakup from the present relationship.

• Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Træen, Bente & Carvalheira, Ana (2013). Job-related strain and sexual health difficulties among heterosexual men from three European countries: The role of culture and emotional support. Journal of Sexual Medicine. ISSN 1743-6095. 10(3), p. 747–756. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02967.x. Show summary

  Introduction: Clinical literature has suggested a link between job-related stress and sexual difficulties in men. However, epidemiological evidence for the association is largely lacking and little is known about the factors that may mediate or moderate the impact of workplace strain on sexual health. Aim: To assess association between job-related difficulties and men’s sexual health and address the mediating and moderating mechanisms behind the relationship. Method: Analyses were carried out using data from an online study carried out in 2011 on convenience samples of Portuguese, Croatian, and Norwegian men (n = 2,112). Multivariate logistic regression and mediation analysis were used to test the hypothesized associations. Main Outcome Measures: Job-related difficulties were measured by ten yes/no questions which addressed a range of adverse workplace situations. The experience of sexual difficulties in the past 12 months was assessed by seven dichotomous indicators developed in the NATSAL 2000 study. Results: Participants with job-related concerns reported lower sexual satisfaction than men without such concerns (F = 7.53, P < .001). Multivariate analysis confirmed the association between job-related and sexual health concerns. The odds of experiencing one or more sexual health difficulties in the past 12 months were about 1.8 times higher among men who reported highest levels of workplace difficulties than among participants who experienced no such difficulties. In addition to country-specific effects on sexual health disturbances (AOR = 1.98-2.22, P < .001), higher income (AOR = .87, P < .01), emotional intimacy with one’s partner (AOR = .93, P < .001), and having children (AOR = .62-.66, P < .01) significantly reduced the odds of reporting sexual health disturbances. In all three countries, the relationship between job-related and sexual health difficulties was mediated by negative mood (anxiety and depression), but no evidence was found for moderating role of emotional support (intimacy and fatherhood). The findings are discussed in the context of a multi-dimensional understanding of men’s sexual health.

• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar & Carvalheira, Ana (2013). The associations among satisfaction with the division of housework, partner's perceived attractiveness, emotional intimacy, and sexual satisfaction in a sample of married or cohabiting Norwegian middle-class men. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 28(3), p. 215–229. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2013.808323.
• Træen, Bente (2013). One night stands. In Bormans, Leo (Eds.), The book of love. Tielt. ISSN 9789401409230. p. 164–167.
• Stige, Signe Hjelen; Træen, Bente & Rosenvinge, Jan H (2013). The Process Leading to Help Seeking Following Childhood Trauma. Qualitative Health Research. ISSN 1049-7323. 23(10), p. 1295–1306. doi: 10.1177/1049732313503907.
• Stige, Signe Hjelen; Binder, Per-Einar; Rosenvinge, Jan H & Træen, Bente (2013). Stories from the road of recovery - How adult, female survivors of childhood trauma experience ways to positive change. Nordic Psychology. ISSN 1901-2276. 65(1), p. 3–18. doi: 10.1080/19012276.2013.796083.
• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar & Carvalheira, Ana (2013). Satisfaction with the division of housework, partner’s perceived attractiveness, emotional intimacy, and sexual satisfaction in married or cohabiting Norwegian middle-class men. Sexual and Relationship Therapy. ISSN 1468-1994. 28(3), p. 215–229. doi: 10.1080/14681994.2013.808323.
• Stige, Signe Hjelen; Rosenvinge, Jan H & Træen, Bente (2013). A meaningful struggle: Trauma clients' experiences with an inclusive stabilization group approach. Psychotherapy Research. ISSN 1050-3307. 23(4), p. 419–429. doi: 10.1080/10503307.2013.778437.
• Rosser, B. R. S.; Smolenski, D; Erickson, D.; Iantaffi, Alex; Brady, S. S. & Grey, Jeremy A. [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2013). The Effects of Gay Sexually Explicit Media on the HIV Risk Behavior of Men Who Have Sex with Men. Aids and Behavior. ISSN 1090-7165. 17(4), p. 1488–1498. doi: 10.1007/s10461-013-0454-8. Show summary

  This study sought to study consumption patterns of gay-oriented sexually explicit media (SEM) by men who have sex with men (MSM); and to investigate a hypothesized relationship between gay SEM consumption and HIV risk behavior. Participants were 1391 MSM living in the US recruited online to complete a SEM consumption and sexual risk survey. Almost all (98.5%) reported some gay SEM exposure over the last 90 days. While 41% reported a preference to watch actors perform anal sex without condoms (termed “bareback SEM”), 17% preferred to actors perform anal sex with condoms (termed “safer sex SEM”) and 42% reported no preference. Overall SEM consumption was not associated with HIV risk; however participants who watched more bareback SEM reported significantly greater odds of engaging in risk behavior. The results suggest that a preference for bareback SEM is associated with engaging in risk behavior. More research to understand how MSM develop and maintain preferences in viewing SEM, and to identify new ways to use SEM in HIV prevention, is recommended.

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• Træen, Bente (2021). Helseminister Bent Høie skjønner nok mer om folks sexliv enn Erna Solberg. Forskning.no.
• Træen, Bente (2021). Kan vi få bedre parforhold i alderdommen gjennom å prate mer om sex? forskning.no.
• Fischer, Nantje & Træen, Bente (2020). Sexual satisfaction in older couples from four European countries: exploring the effects of actual and perceived discrepancy in sexual interest, physical affection, and emotional intimacy .
• Træen, Bente & Villar, Feliciano (2020). SEXUAL WELL-BEING IS PART OF AGEING WELL. European Journal of Ageing. ISSN 1613-9372. 17(2), p. 135–138. doi: 10.1007/s10433-020-00551-0.
• Træen, Bente (2019). Sexual function and sexual well-being in older European adults.
• Træen, Bente (2018). Fra sex i middagshøyden til sex i solnedgang.
• Træen, Bente (2018). Eldre og seksualitet - fakta og myter.
• Træen, Bente (2018). Seksuell helse hos eldre voksne i Europa.
• Carvalheira, Ana; Graham, Cynthia & Træen, Bente (2018). Sexual avoidance among older adults across Europe.
• Kvalem, Ingela Lundin; Carvalheira, Ana & Træen, Bente (2018). Healthy sexual aging: Body image and sexual satisfaction - A comparison across four European countries.
• Janssen, Erick; Enzlin, Paul & Træen, Bente (2018). Predictors of sexual and relationship satisfaction in European couples and individuals, with emphasis on the role of physical intimacy and nonsexual touch.
• Schaller, Sidsel; Træen, Bente & Kvalem, Ingela Lundin (2018). Barriers and facilitating elements in help seeking in Norwegian interviewees' accounts.
• Fischer, Nantje; Træen, Bente & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2018). The Mechanisms between Sexual Interest and Sexual Satisfaction among Older Partnered Adults in Europe: A Moderated Mediation Model.
• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar & Janssen, Erick (2018). THE HEALTHY SEXUAL AGING PROJECT: A MIXED-METHOD STUDY OF SEXUAL FUNCTION AND SEXUAL WELL-BEING IN OLDER ADULTS IN NORWAY, DENMARK, BELGIUM, UNITED KINGDOM, CROATIA, AND PORTUGAL. Show summary

  Objective: To analyze partnered and non-partnered sexual activity and sexual satisfaction in older adults from Norway, Denmark, Belgium and Portugal. Design and method: A cross-sectional survey, with probability samples of the population aged 60-75 years recruited by phone registers in Norway (676 men, 594 women), Denmark (530 men, 515 women), Belgium ( 318 men, 672 women), and Portugal (236 men, 273 women). Data were collected using postal, anonymous questionnaires. Results: In men, the percentage of sexually active participants (reported having had sexual intercourse, masturbation, petting or fondling) in the past year ranged from 83% in Portugal to 91% in Norway. In women, the percentage of sexually active during the last year ranged from 61% in Belgium to 78% in Denmark. Regarding frequency of sexual intercourse activity during the past month, men in Norway, Denmark, and Belgium (23-24%) most often reported 2-3 times per month, whereas most men in Portugal (29%) reported 1-3 times per week. Reporting masturbation activity was most common among Norwegian men (65%) and women (40%). Regarding sexual satisfaction, 40% - 60% of participants reported that they were sexually satisfied. Having a partner was the most important positive predictor of sexual activity and sexual satisfaction in all subgroups except Portuguese men.

• Træen, Bente (2018). Eldre og seksualitet - status på forskning.
• Træen, Bente (2017). Bruk av seksuelt eksplisitte medier og seksuell risikoatferd hos norske menn som har sex med menn. BestPractice Infeksjonsmedisin NO nr. 5..
• Træen, Bente (2017). Seksualitet og seksualatferd. In Klepp, Knut Inge & Aarø, Leif Edvard (Ed.), Ungdom, livsstil og helsefremmende arbeid. Gyldendal Akademisk. ISSN 978-82-05-46398-1. p. 287–304.
• Eidsaa, Randi Margrethe; Kharatyan, Mariam; Despard, Annabelle; Svalsrød, Roger; Træen, Bente & Støkken, Anne Marie [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2017). Tverrfaglig symposium i en kunstnerisk kontekst med utgangspunkt i fotograf Roger Svalsrøds utstilling Shaken 'n Stirred.
• Træen, Bente; Stulhofer, Aleksandar; Janssen, Erick; Graham, Cynthia; Hald, Gert Martin & Enzlin, Paul [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2016). Healthy sexual aging: Sexual function and sexual well-being in older European adults. http://openscienceeu.com/. p. 61–63.
• Benestad, Esben Esther Pirell; Landmark, Brynjar Fowels; Fjeld, Wenche; Schaller, Sidsel & Træen, Bente (2015). Sexuality as a topic in clinical practise amongst Norwegian health personel.
• Henning, Oliver Johannes; Træen, Bente & Nakken, Karl Otto (2014). Sexual dysfunction and sexual well-being in People With epilepsy in Norway.
• Træen, Bente & Sveen, Heidi Helene (2014). Porno er ikke farlig. Dagbladet. ISSN 0805-3766.
• Træen, Bente (2014). Dette vet vi om porno. Dagbladet. ISSN 0805-3766.
• Træen, Bente (2013). Jenter syke av sexpress. [Newspaper]. VG.
• Carvalheira, Ana; Træen, Bente & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2013). Pornography use and masturbation among heterosexal men With lacked sexual interest: Diverse patterns of sexual arousal?
• Træen, Bente & Stulhofer, Aleksandar (2013). The Consumption of Sexually Explicit Media (SEM) Among Young Adults in Norway.
• Træen, Bente (2013). Den seksuelle lavalderens symbolverdi. Ytring : NRK.
• Syse, Aslak; Brumoen, Trine Kjus; Fangen, Kim; Frøland, Stig Sophus; Hofmann, Bjørn & Hognerud, Inger-Lise [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2012). Om kjærlighet og kjøletårn: strafferettslige spørsmål ved alvorlige smittsomme sykdommer. 07 Xpress AS. ISSN 978-82-583-1155-0.

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