Expressive markers in online teenage talk

Abstract

Abstract This paper discusses the expression of emotional involvement in informal computer-mediated communication (CMC). While related research is quite fragmentary through its exclusive focus on a limited number of expressive markers or the inclusion of just one independent variable, the present study includes a wide range of expressive markers and three independent vari­ables. The data reveal strikingly consistent age and gender correlates across all expressive markers and a strong correlation between the preferences of younger adolescents and girls. Furthermore, the study highlights a major impact of medium type. It calls for a refinement of the operationalization of the variable medium, as apart from its inherent characteristics (private/public, synchronous/asynchronous), the nature and goal of the interaction (which is also partly related to the type of social media that people use) trigger specific linguistic practices.