Evaluating the Adequacy of Emoji Use in Positive and Negative Messages from Close and Distant Senders

• DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2021.0157
• Publication Date: 2022-01-05T20:33:56Z
• Authors: Bernardo P. Caval...; Marília Prada; David L. Rodrigues; Diniz Lopes; Margarida V. Garrido
• Keywords: Emoji

Computer-mediated communication allows people to communicate across several contexts (e.g., friends, professional settings) by using video-based or text-based channels. In the latter case, lacks nonverbal cues tone of voice) that are critical message interpretation. Including emoji can help express emotion and reinforce clarify meaning a message. However, benefits likely depend on context relationship between interlocutors) messages' features valence message). To date, studies have not systematically empirically examined how use is perceived different scenarios. current study, we asked 175 participants (49.5 percent women; Mage = 36.32, SD 12.22) imagine receiving either negative positive from 22 senders friend; bank manager) indicate, for each much they would like receive an useful appropriate considered emoji. These ratings were combined into single index adequacy. Based factor analysis, scenarios aggregated in distant close Overall, results showed more inadequate (vs. close) positive) messages. findings suggest may be generalized all contexts, such proximity should overlooked. Implications fields consumer psychology discussed.