This paper examines how computer-mediated communication (CMC) has transformed everyday social interaction by replacing in-person cues — such as tone of voice, body language, and facial expression — with digital alternatives. Drawing on Georgakopoulou, Thurlow et al., and Romiszowski and Mason, the paper discusses how the absence of nonverbal signals requires users to establish new communication norms, including the strategic use of emojis and careful word choice. It also considers how CMC has encouraged broader cultural informality and greater public engagement through social media comment sections, while acknowledging both the constraints and freedoms that digital communication introduces.
Computer-mediated communication has "revolutionized social interaction" (Georgakopoulou, 2011, p. 93). On some days, I communicate with others more through digital devices than in person — for example, on days I am home studying. Instead of using the phone or talking face to face, I use messenger apps or email. Social media is also an important type of computer-mediated communication. It matters because of the ways technology transforms the nature of communication. The term "mediation" refers mainly to the means by which a message is transmitted (Thurlow, Lengel, & Tomic, 2004, p. 18). When we are in person or even on the phone, our brains can pick up a range of cues, such as tone of voice, pauses in speech, pace of speaking, and other forms of nonverbal communication. We detect tone and emotion in body language, facial expressions, and the timbre of a voice. These cues are all absent in computer-mediated communication, with the possible exception of video chatting. Therefore, it has become important to establish new norms of communication, as most people rely increasingly on CMC in their daily lives.
Paying special attention to our CMC means being more conscientious when we type out emails or messages. This may not matter as much with our closest friends or family members, because they already know us well enough to "read" what we are saying and detect emotion or real meaning. However, most people we interact with will not have that background knowledge about us — knowledge that would otherwise compensate for lost data and emotional cues. Romiszowski and Mason (n.d.) point out that the technology itself changes communication style, which is why we need different sets of ground rules when using email versus a messenger app. As the technology advances, so do the standards and norms of communication.
A prime example of evolving communication norms was the shift from emoticons to emojis in messenger apps. Emojis are more content-rich, and they have allowed for richer, more expressive communication. Although they are not considered appropriate in professional contexts, they can increase the clarity of a message. For instance, I can convey sarcasm with an eye-roll emoji. Using emojis matters to me personally, because I worry that what I write may be misinterpreted. I do try to use them judiciously, however, not allowing them to replace the substance of my message. With more formal communications, it is important to rely on clear verbal language rather than depending too heavily on emojis or exclamation points to convey emotion.
"Emojis as tools for emotional clarity online"
"Digital culture driving informality in everyday speech"
"CMC's impact on social engagement and society"
You’re 55% through this paper. Sign up to read the remaining 3 sections.
Sign Up Now — Instant Access Already a member? Log inAlways verify citation format against your institution’s current style guide requirements.