ERIC Number: EJ1478728
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-2576-2907
Available Date: 0000-00-00
The Use of iMessage Tapbacks as Sequence-Closing Seconds
Leanna Rudin
Studies in Applied Linguistics & TESOL, v25 n1 p42-49 2025
This study investigates iMessage Tapbacks (e.g., [heart], [thumb up], !!) as "sequence-closing seconds," or minimal responses that fulfill conversational obligations in text-based group chats. Through conversation analysis of three group conversations, the analysis demonstrates how Tapbacks operate as efficient second pair-parts (2pps) in adjacency pairs: (1) likes ([thumb up]) acknowledge directives (e.g., agreeing to plans), (2) loves ([heart]) signal appreciation for commissives (e.g., offers), and (3) emphasize (!!) affiliates with tellings (e.g., complaints). Findings indicate that Tapbacks address interactional challenges by enabling acknowledgment without prolonging discussion, particularly in asynchronous, multi-topic chats. The study contributes to digital communication research by distinguishing Tapbacks from emojis and theorizing their role in replicating nonverbal cues (e.g., nods) while streamlining interaction. Limitations include a small, homogenous dataset; future research should examine demographic variation and contextual ambiguity in Tapback usage.
Descriptors: Synchronous Communication, Visual Aids, Discourse Analysis, Groups, Computer Software, Barriers, Communication Strategies
Teachers College, Columbia University. 525 West 120th Street, New York, NY 10027. e-mail: tcsalt@tc.columbia.edu; Web site: https://tesolal.columbia.edu
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A