Jessica Journeay

Jessica Journeay is Chair and Associate Professor of Communication Studies at Hope International University, where she contributes to both academic leadership and teaching. She holds a Ph.D. in Communication Studies from Chapman University, an M.A. from California State University, Fullerton, and a B.A. from Biola University, all in the same field.

• Ph.D., Communication Studies, Chapman University
• M.A., Communication Studies, California State University, Fullerton
• B.A., Communication Studies, Biola University

Her research focuses on interpersonal relationships, media effects, and parasocial relationships, with a psychological lens on how media figures influence romantic jealousy, self-perception, and mental health. She investigates topics such as social comparisons with porn stars, authenticity in teaching, and emotional responses to vlogs and digital influencers.

Her recent publications span journals like Journal of Media Psychology and Communication Education, revealing a consistent trend in understanding how mediated relationships affect real-world emotions and behaviors. Her work often integrates qualitative and theoretical approaches, emphasizing psychological and relational consequences of media consumption.

Notable awards include:

• Three Minute Thesis Finalist, Chapman University (2023)
• Outstanding PhD Student, Chapman University (2023)
• Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant Award, Chapman University (2022)
• Commencement Speaker, CSU Fullerton (2017)

Jessica mentors students through research and conference presentations, contributing to projects on caregiving, burnout, and identity in academia. While no specific grants are listed, her active research output and leadership in scholarly presentations suggest ongoing scholarly engagement. She is also involved in academic service, including panel presentations and collaborative research.

She is associated with research teams focusing on media psychology and interpersonal communication, often collaborating with scholars like R. Tukachinsky Forster and M. A. Vendemia. Her work continues to explore the boundaries between real and imagined relationships in digital culture.