Digitally saving face: An experimental investigation of cross-cultural differences in the use of emoticons and emoji

Across three experiments we examined cross-cultural differences in the use of emoticons (Experiment 1) and emoji (Experiments 2 3) when sending text messages. In all experiments, participants wrote messages to another person based on different hypothetical situations (varying valence or face-threat). We assume that digital CMC cues can serve a face-management function. Hence, assumption East Asians, relative Americans, tend be more concerned with face-management, expected Asians than especially threatening situations. Our results supported our hypotheses: used significantly overall, displayed greater situational sensitivity (i.e., situationally-congruent cues). Moreover, there were significant, positive correlations between scores collectivism interdependent self-construal. The preference for by does not appear function poorer English language proficiency; Experiment 3 was significant correlation ESL proficiency use. discuss these findings context past communication research as well politeness theory face-negotiation theory.