Jason Freeman received a Ph.D. in mass communications from Pennsylvania State University in August of 2020. He also earned an MA in mass communications (2017) and a BA in communications with an emphasis in advertising from Brigham Young University (2013). Upon graduating from the BYU advertising program in 2013, Jason spent three years working as an account executive in the New York City advertising industry. He brings firsthand account experience from his work on brands that include Campbell’s, Bank of America, and SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. In these roles, Jason gained extensive experience managing the creative development and production of traditional, digital, and social media content.
Jason’s research interests are heavily influenced by his time as an industry practitioner. Specifically, he is interested in topics that center on advertising ethics and persuasion. This includes ongoing work that examines native advertising and children in advertising. Jason’s research relies heavily on quantitative approaches, though he also appreciates and utilizes qualitative techniques in his work. Jason is specifically interested in the psychological consequences of media use and studies outcomes in this area across the human developmental lifespan. Jason has been published in academic journals that include the Journal of Promotion Management, The Journal of Social Media and Society, and Addiction Research and Theory.
As an instructor, Jason is passionate about merging his professional and academic experience to create an enriching classroom experience. Jason’s efforts as a teacher recently earned him the Harold F. Martin Outstanding Teaching Award. This Pennsylvania State University award goes to graduate students who demonstrate excellence in teaching.
Jason currently lives in Springville, Utah with his wonderful wife Ashley. They enjoy spending time outdoors in the beautiful state of Utah.