James Jia

Language and Persuasive Health Message Design Using discourse-analytic and experimental message design approaches, my first line of research examines the persuasive effects of linguistic and normative message influence strategies on raising people’s awareness of health issues in multilingual societies and across different languacultures. My current projects focus on using multiple messaging strategies to promote HPV vaccination and reduce alcohol consumption intentions. Language and Interpersonal Influence Drawing on insights from linguistic pragmatics and communication studies, my second line of research examines how interlocutors use linguistic (im)politeness and other metadiscourse markers to communicate social support and social influence in various interpersonal and intercultural contexts. My current projects examine how a strategic choice of these subtle linguistic features shapes recipients’ attitudes and behaviors in face-to-face and mediated contexts. Generative AI in Higher Education As a university instructor, I also critically reflect on the role of generative AI in higher education. Drawing on theories in linguistic pragmatics, communication studies, and psychology, I am especially interested in examining how students’ quality of learning and well-being are shaped by the various ways they interact with Generative AI, such as their linguistic choices and communicative contexts.

[Apr 2026] Evaluations of Chinese compliment responses: Accounting for individual differences in attributed pragmatic reasons Jia, M. Apr 2026 In: Journal of Pragmatics. 255, p. 71-82 [Jul 2023] Fear appeals in Chinese public signs of COVID-19 prevention in local communities Jia, M. & Zhao, Y. Jul 2023 In: Pragmatics and Society. 14, 2, p. 281-305 [2024] Introduction to Pragmatics Xiang, M., Jia, M. & Bu, X. 2024 Singapore: Springer Singapore. 177 p. (Peking University Linguistics Research ; vol. 9)