Jessica M Alleva Ph.D.

About

Jessica Alleva, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of psychology at Maastricht University in the Netherlands. Her mission is to help people develop a healthier relationship with their own bodies. To this end, her research investigates novel strategies for improving body image, as well as the factors that can make us feel better (or worse) about our bodies. Her work has been published in numerous journals and local and international media outlets, and has been presented at academic conferences around the globe. She also teaches university-level courses on the topic of body image, and is regularly engaged in community-based events that bring together researchers and members of the public. Her work has received recognition including the Distinguished Women Scientists Fund from the Dutch Network of Women Professors and the Rubicon Grant from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research, and she was named on the VIVA400 – a list of ambitious and inspiring women in the Netherlands who have made a difference in their field and the community. As of 2018, Alleva is also an Associate Editor for Body Image, the leading scientific journal in the field of body image research.

Recent Posts

Body Neutrality Isn't New or Unique From Positive Body Image

Many see body neutrality as a new approach to body image, but is it truly unique? Here are 10 myths about body neutrality and the evidence to challenge them.

Improving Body Image Among People With a Visible Difference

Many people with a visible difference experience appearance concerns. Our study tested a novel approach for improving their body image.

Body Image Strategies for Using Social Media

Social media can contribute to negative body image. In a new study, we investigated two promising "protective filtering" strategies that may help.

Body Image in Preadolescence

A recent study investigated the relationship between social media and body image among preadolescents and the protective role that parents might play.

How Social Media Affects Body Image and Eating Behavior

A systematic review uncovers how eating-related content on social media is linked to negative body image and eating behaviour.

The Number-One Tip for Setting “Good” Goals

If you're thinking about forming New Year's resolutions, this is the most important thing to keep in mind to create the "best" goals.

The Relationship Between Nature and Body Image

Spending time in nature can be a turning point from negative to positive body image. Here's why.

Positive Body Image and Eating Disorders Among Men

How does the way men feel about their body impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors around eating? This study investigated these relationships among men over one year.

What Impacts Women's Attitudes Toward Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is on the rise, worldwide. New research investigates what impacts women's attitudes toward cosmetic surgery and how these may differ across cultures.

Identifying as Fat: Can It Buffer Weight Discrimination?

Weight-based discrimination is prevalent and harms well-being. A new study investigates the potential buffering effect of "fat-group identification."