To text or talk: Does communication modality matter when providing criticism to others?

Abstract

Text messaging affords users the ability to quickly and conveniently send messages – both supportive and critical – to members of their social network. Despite the ease with which users can send potentially hurtful messages, it is unclear how the impact of these messages compares to in-person interactions. The current study is the first to directly compare the emotional impact of in-person criticism to text message criticism using a randomized controlled design. Emerging adults (n = 172) completed a lab-based stressor and were then randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1) in-person criticism, 2) criticism via text message, or 3) no feedback (control). Criticism was provided by a similar-aged female confederate. Both criticism groups reported significantly lower positive affect and higher negative affect and stress, compared to the control group, with no meaningful difference between the two forms of criticism. Those low on trait mindfulness reported significantly more hurt feelings when criticized through text (versus in-person), providing preliminary evidence that mindfulness could serve a protective role when receiving criticism via mobile messaging. Findings are also important in light of emerging evidence that efforts to make amends through digital communication may be less effective than in-person communication at fostering positive affect and bonding.