Jayson Dibble

Dr. Jayson Dibble is a Professor of Communication and Department Chair at Hope College. His research spans interpersonal communication, parasocial relationships, and the psychological dynamics of sharing undesirable messages.

• Ph.D., Communication, Michigan State University (2008)
• M.A., Organizational Communication, Western Michigan University (2003)
• B.S., Biomedical Science, Western Michigan University (1997)

Dr. Dibble’s work focuses on technology-mediated relationships (e.g., parasocial bonds with media characters, digital back-burner relationships), communication of negative feedback, and persuasion. His publications in journals like Human Communication Research and Communication Research highlight interdisciplinary approaches merging communication studies with social psychology.

His recent articles examine the impact of social media on romantic jealousy, parasocial interaction measurement validity, and reluctance to share bad news. These works often employ quantitative research methods and theoretical frameworks like the Investment Model.

• 2018 Most Shared Article, Eastern Communication Association
• 2015 Outstanding Article Award, Central States Communication Association
• 2014 Rookie Advisor of the Year, Lambda Pi Eta

Dr. Dibble also actively engages in community roles, including officiating football and participating in the 501st Legion (Star Wars costuming charity). His research has been funded through academic grants, though specific details are not provided.