About Miro

My journey into sexual health and trauma research has been one of unexpected turns and deep personal conviction. Born in Žilina, Slovakia, my early path led to studies at the University of Žilina, followed by diverse professional experiences in Žilina and Prague.
Over time, I became increasingly drawn to the complexities of human relationships, sexuality, and the effects of early sexual experiences (wanted and unwanted). This interest prompted extensive continuing education in psychology in Bratislava, followed by specialized training in sexual studies, trauma-informed approaches, female sexuality, orgasmic difficulties, and survivor support.
My research has deepened around the sexuality of children and adolescents, with particular focus on the dynamics of sexual development in these age groups and the complicated family relationships that can involve sexuality. This includes exploring the full range of reported experiences that survivors describe, to gain a better understanding of long-term consequences.
I find great value in fully open and honest dialogue on these sensitive topics and actively engage in discussions with fellow researchers, peers, and most importantly, individuals with direct lived experience of complex family dynamics, to deepen understanding.
I remain committed to open science, ongoing self-study, and participation in professional forums. My personal experiences, including marriage, children, and later divorce, have further informed my views on complex relationships.

Miroslav Kovac
Email: miro.kovac@ostrg.org Full CV: m.kovac-CV.pdf

Born 1968. Co-Founder, Open Sexual Trauma Research Group (OSTRG)

• Co-founded and actively contributes to OSTRG focused on advancing understanding of sexual experiences and trauma.

• Lead the development and dissemination of research findings through various platforms.

• Authored/Co-authored several peer-reviewed papers on various aspects of sexual abuse and trauma research.

• Ongoing self-study and research on female sexuality, sexual trauma, orgasmic difficulties, and PGAD, with a particular focus on sexual abuse on children.

• Active participation in professional forums and communities related to sexual health and trauma.

About Aneta

My journey into sexual research began early in my youth when I became interested in the topic and wanted to study it in more detail. My academic foundation began in international economics, where I developed analytical skills and a global perspective. After working professionally in the field in Germany, I wanted to work in a field that focused on people's well-being and the challenges they face.
This led me to learn more about complex human sexuality. I studied sexual trauma and its effects, especially on women. I've completed specialized training in areas such as female sexual dysfunction, working with survivors of sexual abuse, and addressing specific concerns such as PGAD.
I love doing in-depth research and I want to help the field grow. I supported to start the OSTRG, and through it, I am working on research projects that examine different types of sexual topics, complex relationships between people, and the important physical and emotional effects on survivors. My work with OSTRG mainly focuses on women's sexual development and how trauma can manifest in different ways.
I strongly believe in open discussions and the importance of making research accessible to everyone. I have worked with other researchers on papers and reports on sexual abuse and trauma research. We share our findings with the broader community through publications, online platforms, and reports.

Aneta Kovac
Email: Aneta.Kovac@ostrg.org Full CV: a.kovac-CV.pdf

Born 1995. Co-Founder, Open Sexual Trauma Research Group (OSTRG)

• Co-founded and actively contributes to OSTRG focused on advancing understanding of sexual experiences and trauma.

• Ongoing study and research on female sexuality, family dynamics, sexual trauma, and PGAD.

• Active participation in professional forums and communities related to sexual health and trauma.

About Jan

Born and raised in the Netherlands, where I continue to live and work, I am now 63 years old. My path into sexual trauma research stems from a deep interest in understanding the full spectrum of survivor experiences, particularly how societal assumptions often overlook complexities such as the broader role of family and intrafamilial dynamics in shaping long-term sexual and relational outcomes.
This interest led me to independent research and collaboration with like-minded colleagues. In 2021, I co-authored a significant paper with Miroslav Kovac through the Open Sexual Trauma Research Group (OSTRG), focusing on reconciling trauma with experiences of arousal and pleasure among female sexual abuse survivors. While the field often centers on harm and trauma, I am also fascinated by exploring potential adaptive or positive elements that can emerge within difficult family dynamics.
I place great value in open, respectful dialogue on these sensitive topics and actively engage in discussions with fellow researchers, and individuals with direct experience of complex family dynamics, whose insights are essential to deepening knowledge and informing better support.

Jan Kroon
Email: jan.kroon@ostrg.org Full CV: j.kroon-CV.pdf

Born 1962. Co-Founder, Open Sexual Trauma Research Group (OSTRG)

• Contributed to collaborative research examining sexual dynamics, survivor impacts, and societal perceptions.

• Co-authored key publications challenging conventional narratives around trauma responses in female survivors.

• Engaged in dissemination of findings through reports and online platforms to promote accessible, evidence-based insights.