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The Graduate Review

Abstract

This research project aimed to examine how varying portrayals of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) influence public mental health literacy (MHL). Our research questions focused on the impact of multidimensional vs single portrayals of OCD on OCD MHL, as well as the influence of certain sociodemographic factors on OCD MHL. Additional exploratory questions were investigated and aimed to explain the relationship between OCD MHL and media, as well as OCD MHL and education levels. To investigate these questions, the study employed a combination of experimental and survey-based methods. By fostering greater awareness of misinformation about OCD, the study not only aimed to improve accuracy in understanding OCD, but also to cultivate critical thinking skills and enable participants to evaluate information about mental health more broadly. The results of our study were mixed, as some hypotheses were supported and some hypotheses were not supported. Given these mixed results, we have identified several areas where future research is needed to further advance knowledge in the field about OCD MHL.

Note on the Author

Lauren Angell is a current graduate student in the Clinical Psychology MA program at Bridgewater State University. Lauren earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UMass Lowell, with a clinical concentration. Lauren is currently working for a nonprofit organization in the psychiatric rehabilitation division and has a strong interest in research. In the future, Lauren aspires to earn a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience and pursue a teaching profession.

Aleena Babu is currently a graduate student in the clinical psychology program at Bridgewater State University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Queens College in New York. Aleena has a strong interest in working with the incarcerated population and providing trauma-based therapy. She is currently gaining experience through her clinical role in a Section 35 substance use treatment program. Upon graduating from Bridgewater State University, Aleena plans to pursue licensure as an LMHC and hopes to work in a correctional facility setting.

Jimmy Dumont is a first year graduate student seeking a master’s degree in clinical psychology at Bridgewater State University. He completed his undergraduate degree in psychology at Stonehill College in Massachusetts. This project was completed for PSYC 506: Research Methods/Designs II under the mentorship of Dr. Ashley Hansen – Brown. Jimmy plans to become a licensed mental health counselor specializing in anxiety and mood disorders after earning his graduate degree.

Lauren Masapollo is currently a graduate student in the clinical psychology master’s program at Bridgewater State University. Lauren holds an associate’s degree in psychology from Bristol Community College and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bridgewater State University. Upon graduating from Bridgewater State University, she is aspiring to be a LMHC (licensed mental health clinician) specializing as a co-response clinician dedicated to working alongside law enforcement in crisis situations. She is passionate about the integration of mental health professionals and police officers to provide compassionate, effective responses to individuals in crisis. Lauren aims to support safer, more informed outcomes by bridging the gap between clinical care and public safety.

Kaitlyn Silva is a current second-year graduate student in the Clinical Psychology program at Bridgewater State University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a secondary major in Sociology, having a focus on social work and social welfare, from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Currently working in elementary special education, she brings practical experience supporting clients with diverse needs. Her professional aspiration is to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), with a commitment to delivering ethical, person-centered, and culturally informed care.

We completed this research project in the Spring of 2025 under the mentorship of Dr. Hansen-Brown. We would like to acknowledge Bridgewater State University Psychology Department for providing funding for our research.

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