Panteion University | Greece
Dr. Ilias Kassaras is a dedicated psychologist and social researcher specializing in LGBTQIA2+ well-being and multisexual identity. Holding a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Panteion University in Athens, Greece, Dr. Kassaras has conducted pioneering studies on well-being and interpersonal relationships among plurisexual individuals. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (2013), and two postgraduate degrees—one in Educational Psychology from the University of Nicosia (2016), and another in the Social Psychology of Conflict from Panteion University (2021). As a certified Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapist, his work bridges clinical practice and academic inquiry.
Professional profile👤
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Strengths for the Awards✨
Dr. Ilias Kassaras stands out for tackling an under‑researched yet socially significant domain—plurisexual identity and LGBTQIA2+ well‑being. In just a few years he has produced six peer‑reviewed journal articles, including scale development work already filling key measurement gaps (e.g., the Multisexual Identity Scale, the short MSQ). Publishing in reputable outlets such as Journal of Bisexuality and Sexuality & Culture demonstrates both rigor and reach. His mixed‑methods approach, psychometric expertise, and focus on culturally adapting interventions (e.g., Honest, Open, Proud for multiple‑sclerosis patients) show methodological versatility and real‑world impact. As a qualified CBT psychotherapist, he bridges academic insight with clinical utility—an advantage for translational relevance. Collectively, these achievements position him as a promising change‑maker in sexuality research and an excellent fit for the Best Researcher Award.
🎓 Education
Dr. Kassaras’s academic journey reflects his strong foundation in psychology and social sciences. He earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2013. He pursued two specialized postgraduate programs: one in Educational Psychology at the University of Nicosia (2016) and the other in Social Psychology of Conflict at Panteion University (2021). His academic career culminated in a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Panteion University, where he focused on interpersonal relationships and well-being in multisexual populations.
🧑🏫 Experience
Professionally, Dr. Kassaras has merged academic rigor with therapeutic practice. As a qualified Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapist, he has worked closely with individuals across various gender and sexual identities, translating empirical knowledge into affirming therapeutic approaches. In academia, he has served as a researcher and author, contributing to both national and international discussions on gender identity, LGBTQIA2+ experiences, and social psychology. His experience also includes collaborative projects on culturally adapting psychological programs for minority groups in Greece.
🔬 Research Interests On Psychology
Dr. Kassaras’s research interests are deeply rooted in social psychology, with a focus on sexuality, gender identity, and LGBTQIA2+ mental health. His work shines a light on plurisexual individuals—an often overlooked subgroup—exploring their identity formation, well-being, and psychosexuality. He is particularly interested in developing inclusive tools for psychological measurement and has authored new validated scales for use among multisexual populations. His interdisciplinary approach blends empirical rigor with cultural sensitivity.
🏅 Awards
While formal award recognitions are still emerging, Dr. Kassaras’s groundbreaking contributions in LGBTQIA2+ psychology and plurisexual identity research position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His development of identity-specific psychological scales and dedication to underrepresented groups mark significant advancements in inclusive psychological science.
📚 Publications
Dr. Kassaras has published several impactful articles in reputable peer-reviewed journals, often in collaboration with Dr. P. Kordoutis. His publications include the development of novel psychological scales and empirical research on LGBTQIA2+ identity and well-being:
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Kassaras, I., & Kordoutis, P. (2024). Measuring Aspects of Multisexuality: Initial Development of the Multisexual Identity Scale. Journal of Bisexuality, 1–44. [🔗 https://doi.org/10.1080/15299716.2024.2374346]
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Kassaras, I., & Kordoutis, P. (in press). The Role of Gender Identity in Well-Being and Psychosexual Aspects. Interpersona: An International Journal on Personal Relationships.
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Kassaras, I. (2025). Predicting Attitudes Towards LGBTQIA2+ Individuals: The Roles of Moral Judgments, Masculinity/Femininity, and Moral Disengagement. Sexuality & Culture. [🔗 https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-025-10353-0]
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Tzitzika, M., Daoultzis, C. C., Kassaras, I., & Kordoutis, P. (2025). EYpA: Cultural Integration and Adaptation of the Honest, Open, Proud Program for Use in People with Multiple Sclerosis in Greece. Qeios. [🔗 https://doi.org/10.32388/C3EYHO]
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Kassaras, I., & Kordoutis, P. (2025). Development and Initial Validation of a Short Form of the Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire for Multisexual People. Journal of Bisexuality, 1–24. [🔗 https://doi.org/10.1080/15299716.2025.2498337]
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Kassaras, I., & Kordoutis, P. (2025). Multisexuality, Psychosexual aspects and Well-being: A Web-based survey in a Greek sample. Trends in Psychology. [🔗 https://doi.org/10.1007/s43076-025-00469-5]
🔚 Conclusion
✨ Dr. Ilias Kassaras stands at the forefront of inclusive social psychology research, with a special focus on LGBTQIA2+ well-being and multisexual identity development. Through a combination of theoretical insight and empirical innovation, he has created vital tools for understanding and affirming underrepresented identities. His dedication to scientific rigor and social impact makes him an exemplary nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Dr. Kassaras’s contributions are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable psychological science landscape.
