Faculty Feature of the Month

December 4, 2020 - Jade Greear

Tell us a little about your research

“My research focuses on digital persuasion, where I investigate the processes and effects of advertising and persuasive messages in relation to risk and health. Recent work has focused on the relationship between social media use and alcohol use, where, with collaborators, we have investigated how self-reported drinking, specifically during celebrations, has been associated with higher normative perceptions of close social media friends' drinking. We have also investigated the effects of alcohol advertising via social media on a number of alcohol use outcomes. Another major area of research deals with digital aggression. Third, I've been engaged in a series of projects focusing on the monetary value and psychological motives for using social media (e.g., Facebook and Instagram). Finally, with collaborators from other universities and the A-CAPP center on campus, we have been studying the phenomenon of counterfeit pharmaceuticals sold illegally online and via social media.”

 

Could you share some examples of your recent work?

“There are two current research projects that are currently underway. First, we are replicating a previous study where participants are asked how much they are willing to get paid to give up Facebook, but now with Instagram. Another study examines the effectiveness of fear and humor appeals in persuading consumers to refrain from engaging with purchasing medications online.”

 

To learn more about Dr. Alhabash, visit his website here