Emoticons help people communicate more efficiently at a distance and promote greater satisfaction in relationships even if it is some trivial-text messages, an American study shows.
Emoticons promote shutterstock photo communication
The use of emotions in text messages helps people pass the digital barrier represented by the smartphone and regain the feeling of connection with others, shows a new study, published in PLOS One magazine.
Researchers at the University of Texas called for 260 people between the ages of 23 and 67 to read 15 text messages that were distinguished only by the presence or absence of emoticons.
The participants were asked to put themselves in place of the sender, while focusing on the recipient’s response, to evaluate the degree of receptivity, sympathy, closeness and satisfaction in the relationship.
The study showed that people who add emoticons are considered more receptive in their relationships than those who send mere text messages.
It has also been found that Emoji serve as nonverbal indications that signal attention and emotional involvement.
A creative and effective alternative
Raquel Peel, a lecturer at Central Queensland University, who was not involved in the study, said that sending emojs can be a creative alternative when people cannot see their partner.
“I do not think we can replace the face-to-face interactions, as it is about partnerships and intimate relationships, but we must be realistic that this is not always possible. So, if you cannot meet face to face with your partner, for any reason, it is important to stay in contact. The use of the emotions becomes an alternative in these circumstances.”she explained.
Communication in relationships is important regardless of the means of communication, to keep the connection with the other, and should not be underestimated in any situation.
Another aspect that promotes good communication but which many people tend to omit in their relationships is the “value of humor” and the ability to make fun.
“So, if the emotions can serve a purpose, which we know can do, then it is to contribute to the amusement and humor connection, and this is really important.”
Luke McGregor, 42, and Amy Thunig-McGregor, 37, say that the possibility of using emoticons helps them communicate better in the couple.
“Traditionally, I did not use emotions too often, but when I first met Amy, I noticed that she used them often, so there was a vulnerability or an obstacle that I had to overcome to start using myself,” McGregor said.
