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Social Science Computer Review
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Emoticons and Online Message Interpretation

Daantje Derks

Open University of the Netherlands, daantjederks{at}gmail.com

Arjan E. R. Bos

Erasmus University Rotterdam, bos{at}fsw.eur.nl

Jasper von Grumbkow

Open University of the Netherlands, jaspervongrumbkow{at}ou.nl

The present study experimentally examines the impact of emoticons on message interpretation among secondary school students (N = 105). Furthermore, perceived motives for emoticon use are examined. Results show that emoticons do have an impact on message interpretation. Emoticons are useful in strengthening the intensity of a verbal message. Furthermore, it is possible to create ambiguity and express sarcasm online by varying the valence of the emoticon and the valence of the message. Overall, the authors conclude that to a large extent, emoticons serve the same functions as actual nonverbal behavior.

Key Words: emoticon • computer-mediated communication • message interpretation • motives

This version was published on August 1, 2008

Social Science Computer Review, Vol. 26, No. 3, 379-388 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/0894439307311611
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