Overview
This lecture explores how the use of periods in text messaging has evolved, why periods may come across as insincere or angry, and what this reveals about language adaptation in digital communication.
Changing Use of the Period in Texts
- Texting introduces new stylistic norms, often omitting periods at the end of short messages.
- A period in a text can signal a definitive end to a conversation, sometimes appearing standoffish or angry.
- Research shows messages ending with periods feel more insincere in texts but not in handwritten notes.
- Many multi-sentence texts use punctuation within, but less often at the message's end.
Situational Code-Switching in Communication
- Situational code-switching: changing language style based on context, audience, or medium.
- Formal writing styles in casual settings (like texting) can seem distant or insincere.
- The use of a period in texting reflects code-switching and can feel overly formal in casual digital chats.
Informality and Sincerity in Texting
- Repetition of letters and punctuation (e.g., "soooooo" or "!!!") adds informality and intensity, enhancing perceived sincerity.
- Casual styles without message-final periods are seen as more genuine among peers.
- Overly formal text messages may undermine emotional sincerity compared to informal, expressive styles.
Texting and Writing Skills
- Concerns that texting erodes writing ability are largely unfounded.
- Code-switching between formal and informal registers can indicate social competency and intellectual ability.
- Studies show little impact of textese on formal writing or language skills.
- Effective communicators adapt their style to the context, using proper punctuation in formal writing and informality in texts.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Period (Full Stop) — A punctuation mark signaling the end of a sentence.
- Textese/Text Speak — Informal, abbreviated style used in texting.
- Ellipses (...) — Punctuation indicating a pause or that a conversation should continue.
- Situational Code-Switching — Changing language style depending on context or audience.
- Register — A variety of language used for a particular purpose or in a particular social setting.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on your own texting habits and observe how you adjust your writing style in different contexts.
- Practice identifying when to use formal versus informal language in your messages and assignments.