Investigating Ingratiatory Expression in Online Social Interaction from a dramaturgical theory Perspective: A Case research on WeChat Users

Abstract

Amidst the deep entrenchment of users in digital platforms and the performative aspects of online interactions, ingratiatory communicative behaviors have emerged as a striking spectacle in social media exchanges. In this research, we adopt a dramaturgical approach with WeChat users as the subject, conducting in-depth interviews to investigate the ingratiation expression behavior on social media platforms.The research reveals that online ingratiatory behaviors manifest through textual expressions of intimacy and amiability, the emotive and lively deployment of emoticons, and the hyperbolic and illustrative use of digital meme stickers. These strategies are predominantly motivated by utilitarian necessities, adherence to social decorum, and the impetus for affective communication. Nevertheless, the tendency to excessively engage in ingratiating tactics during online social exchanges may precipitate the repression of authentic self-expression and engender social exhaustion.