Welcome!

My name is Dylan, and I am a professor and researcher at Minot State University. I am also the director of the RiSE (Research in Social and Existential) Psychology & Well-Being Lab. 

I earned my B.A. in Psychology at Minot State University (2017), my M.A. in Experimental Research Psychology at Cleveland State University (2019), and my Ph.D. in Social Psychology at the University of Arizona (2023).

My research is focused on various topics in social and existential psychology, including self-esteem, personal growth, meaning in life, and the awareness of mortality. Much of my research has focused specifically on understanding how feelings of autonomy and self-authorship for one’s life—in other words, feelings of personal choice, self-direction, and volition over one’s actions and decisions—can help people manage death-related anxiety and concerns, promote well-being, and encourage healthy psychological adjustment. My recent and ongoing work is beginning to apply these understandings to other existential concerns with the goal of identifying ways to support people who are especially vulnerable to experiencing psychological distress.

To learn more about my work, I encourage you to explore this website and to check out the items below!