Survey reveals graphic icons enhance relationship maintenance in digital communication, suggesting varied impacts based on social anxiety and tie strength.
Key Points
Greater use of graphic icons leads to improved relationship maintenance and intimacy among participants.
Frequent use of memes, GIFs, and emojis was significantly linked to deeper self-disclosure in both strong and weak ties.
Responses were collected through an online survey involving 395 participants, focusing on their communication experiences.
Findings indicate that graphic icons have varying effects based on individual social anxiety and relational context.