The Problem of Gendered Emojis in Online Communication Platforms: A Study to Understand Digital Dependence on Using Emotions During Pandemic

Abstract

Digitalization, affordable smart gadgets, and social distancing have turned virtual communication into a lived phenomenon. However, we should be aware of the fact that the virtual communication process is entangled with positive and negative consequences. On the one hand, it has enabled people to develop a feeling of togetherness and belonging, and on the other, it is steeped in conflict and dispute due to the extensive use of emojis that are context-sensitive and are subjected to multiple interpretations. The problem of emojis connected with sexual connotations has not been studied in an online conversation parameter. Hence, the current study examines the sexual connotations that are embedded in the usage of non-facial emojis such as eggplant, cherry, etc., in virtual communication and analyses sexual connotations that are generated in closed group interactions. The methodology undertaken in this study is a quantitative experimental research method to collect data. Participants (N=64) will determine how certain context-sensitive emojis are perceived by them in closed group online conversations. Results suggest that non-facial emojis possess sexual connotations which are highly context-specific and used extensively in interpersonal conversations. In this way, this paper will prepare the ground to study more hidden sexual connotations in emojis.

The Power of a 😉: Emojis Reducing Ambiguity in Digitally Mediated Romantic Encounters

“…However, close friends and family members can repurpose the meaning of emojis for something other than their intended use between themselves (Wiseman and Gould 2018). The sweat emoji in a text message can be a reference to working out or the emoji can have a sexual connotation of sexual fluids (Ravi and Karmakar 2023). Face emojis, such as a smirking face , are considered playful and flirtatious and associated with increased intimacy in digital interactions (Konrad, Herring, and Choi 2020; Rodrigues, Cavalheiro, and Prada 2022).…”