The Impact of Emojis on Text Perception: A Descriptive Analysis of WhatsApp Users

Abstract

Social media platforms have become central to millennial communication, influencing emotions and behaviors despite their virtual nature. Emojis, ubiquitous social media cues, are often viewed as replacements for vocal tone. This study investigates the manipulative effect of emojis on user perception of textual messages. A series of experiments explored the interplay between text comprehension and emoji use. The research aimed to elucidate the motivations behind emoji usage and the impact of incongruent emojis (emoticons that contradict the message) on the recipient's mental state. Employing a theatrical perspective, the study conducted experiments with 50 participants using convenient sampling method. The results of the study clearly demonstrated that the usage of emojis intensifies the effect of message. The positive message shown to the respondents was perceived as more positive with the addition of cheerful and happy emojis. Similarly, the negative message was more inclined to the perception of negative or discouraging emojis. These findings were especially pronounced for the control group where the respondents perceived the message as slightly positive. It was found that using more emojis with the text message amplifies the perception of emojis. the negative emojis increase the negative effect of message and positive emojis intensify the positive perception of message. Future studies should explore the long-term psychological impacts of emoji use in digital communication and consider how this phenomenon can be leveraged for more effective emotional engagement in both personal and professional contexts.