Smile Back at Me, But Only Once: Social Norms of Appropriate Nonverbal Intensity and Reciprocity Apply to Emoji Use

Abstract In computer-mediated communication, small graphical icons ( emojis ) can be used to compensate for the lack of nonverbal cues such as facial expressions or hand gestures. Accordingly, literature suggests that use may also subject social norms—similar behavior in face-to-face interactions. However, actual empirical investigations into this assumption remain lacking. To remedy research gap, I explored whether traditional norms appropriate emotional intensity and reciprocity apply emoji usage. A first online experiment N = 188) revealed excessive a first-contact scenario leads diminished interpersonal outcomes, corresponding drawbacks overly intense displays natural Proceeding different communicative stage, Experiment 2 242) with acquainted interaction partners. Inviting participants reply fictitious text messages (at varying levels intimacy), it was observed stimulus containing more evoke stronger return—indicating principles attunement are full effect during text-based