THE INTERNET IS A NON-VERBAL MEANS OF COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Internet users communicate using iconic symbols that represent symbolic meaning in the online communication process. Facial expressions and this way of expressing emotions can convey communication signals that can't be conveyed through text, which affects interpersonal respect on the Internet. Messages sent using different symbols evoke emotions in the receiver depending on the shape of the symbol. In this study, we statistically analyzed the types and amounts of iconic symbols used in virtual chat environments to test a number of hypotheses that support the above discussion. According to the results of the analysis, Internet users tend to use more emoticons when asked about something important to them and when the other person is not close to them. In addition, depending on the type of politeness expression, positive emoticons were used more often in collegialization strategy and autonomy respect strategy words, and negative emoticons were used more in collegialization strategy and covert strategy. Based on the above results, it can be concluded that among the iconic symbols, emoticons have a function similar to non-verbal face-saving strategies in face-to-face environments, thus affecting smooth and natural interaction on the Internet.