Dylan James’ (Traill College) journey into psychology began in high school, where literary characters like Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye first sparked his fascination with human behaviour. That early curiosity about how the mind works evolved into a focused interest in mental health, and now, a scientific inquiry into the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). 

“One upper-year class during my undergrad featured an intriguing case study on an individual’s experience with OCD," said Dylan, Master of Science in Psychology student. “I was inspired to further explore research in the field of psychopathology, and Trent felt like the right place to grow as a researcher because of its supportive academic environment and strong mentorship culture.” 

While traditional studies and treatments for OCD often focus on the link between a specific fear and a resulting compulsion, Dylan’s research – supervised by Psychology professor Dr. Laura Summerfeldt and colleagues in the Trent Emotion and Health Research Lab – explores a lesser-known dimension: individuals whose compulsions stem not from fear, but from a persistent sense of incompleteness or discomfort. 

“My research looks at how people with different types of OCD traits, particularly those with feelings that things are not just right, respond to signals from their own bodies. By studying how well they detect and interpret their internal bodily sensations, we hope to uncover underlying mechanisms behind more severe and treatment-resistant forms of OCD in order to help develop more personalized and effective interventions,” Dylan explained. 

That clarity of purpose along with an ability to explain complex concepts helped Dylan win first place at Trent’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, later representing the University at regionals in Toronto. 

“3MT provides an excellent platform for knowledge mobilization, offering a chance to bridge the gap between university research and the general public,” said Dylan. “It was a great opportunity to share the value of the work I've had the privilege to be involved in, with the hope of inspiring public interest and understanding.” 

Just as he’s learned to translate complex science into accessible language, Dylan is also working to connect academic insight with frontline mental health care. He works as a mental health worker at a live-in treatment centre for youth, which grounds his research in lived experience and real-world impact. 

His master’s program and his work experience are setting him up to take the next step on his career path: a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, where he plans to further explore the inner workings of OCD while developing the clinical skills needed to support those affected. 

“Contributing both to our understanding and to the care of those affected would be a profound privilege.” 

Learn more about Trent's Master of Science in Psychology graduate program.