The Role of Nonverbal Communication (Emoticons and Stickers) in Social Interactions on Social Media

A Study of Postgraduate Students at UIN Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh

Abstract

Technoogica advancement has entered the digita era with the emergence of various socia media patforms. The infuence of nonverba communication (emoticons and stickers) in socia interactions on socia media is so significant that it can affect perception and the formation of reationships between individuas. This research uses a quaitative approach to understand and describe the roe of nonverba communication, especiay the use of emoticons and stickers, in socia interactions on socia media. Data coection empoyed purposive samping. The method of anaysis used mode Mies and Huberman. This study aims to provide insights into how nonverba eements contribute to the expression of emotions and the formation of meaning in digita communication. The findings indicate that the use of emoticons and stickers has become commonpace and is even considered necessary in every message. This is because they hep carify the context of the message and ensure that the recipient understands the emotions or sentiments the sender wishes to convey. The use of emoticons and stickers has become a norm in digita communication, demonstrating the importance of nonverba eements in enriching messages and ensuring better understanding between the sender and receiver.