Abstract
Computer-mediated communication (CMC) is pervasive in our lives, influencing social interaction including human courtship. To connect with potential partners via CMC, modern relationship-seekers must master faster and shorter methods of communicating self-disclosure and affect. Although CMC can lack crucial sensory information in this context, emojis may provide useful aid. Across two studies, we assessed attitudes toward and frequency of emoji use, and whether signaling affect via emoji use relates to more romantic and sexual opportunities. Our findings suggest that emoji use with potential partners is associated with maintaining connection beyond the first date, and more romantic and sexual interactions over the previous year. This research provides evidence that emojis convey important affective information to potential partners, and are potentially associated with more successful intimate connection. Implications for multiple theoretical models and methodologies are discussed.
Highlights
With online and app dating services an increasingly common way people meet partners across all demographics of relationship seekers [1], reliance on computer-mediated communication (CMC) has extended into people’s intimate relationships
In Study 1, we report on emoji use with potential partners in a large sample of U
We argue that emoji use imbues CMC with aspects of expression, emotional valence, and affect that takes advantage of evolved social psychological features of human communication, which in turn can promote the development of intimate relationships
Summary
With online and app dating services an increasingly common way people meet partners across all demographics of relationship seekers [1], reliance on computer-mediated communication (CMC) has extended into people’s intimate relationships. In face-to-face interactions, people often rely on non-verbal behaviors to effectively express emotion These behaviors communicate both intentional and unintentional signals, and allow for cultivating a bond through shared affect [4]. The reduction of expressive and affective information, combined with the inability to use the same nonverbal cues as in face-to-face interactions to accurately decipher intent, results in a challenging environment that requires more effort to achieve effective communication and mutual understanding [5]. We argue that emoji use imbues CMC with aspects of expression, emotional valence, and affect that takes advantage of evolved social psychological features of human communication, which in turn can promote the development of intimate relationships. We investigate the interpersonal aspects of emoji use to examine emojis as tools to connect with potential relationship partners. Most (62.2%) identified as White/Caucasian, 18.8% Black/African-American, 15.0% Hispanic/Latino, 5.9% Asian, 2.0% North American Indian/Alaskan Native/Pacific Islander, and 3.3% identified as “other.”
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
