Dr. Jessica M. Choplin is a cognitive psychologist, professor, and journalist who has spent decades studying how people think, form beliefs, and make decisions. A professor of psychological science at DePaul University in Chicago since 2004, she earned her Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from UCLA in 2002. Her work applies academic research to real-world concerns, offering deeper insights into belief formation, learning, and decision-making.
As a journalist, Dr. Choplin tells compelling stories about the cognitive psychology of everyday people, exploring how they interpret the world and the challenges they face. She specializes in the psychology of belief, human judgment, decision-making, and consumer protection. Her expertise has led her to serve as an expert witness for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, AARP, and the Washington State Attorney General, helping courts understand how certain sales techniques can undermine consumers’ ability to make informed purchasing decisions.
Beyond her professional work, Dr. Choplin is deeply committed to her family. She and her wife, Debra, have raised their twin sons multilingually through immersive experiences in Costa Rica and extended studies in Israel. Her passion for understanding the human mind and sharing psychological insights through storytelling reflects her lifelong curiosity and dedication to making complex ideas accessible and relevant to a broad audience.