The Impact of Social Media and Texting on Language Use and Communication Styles among Students in Punjab

Authors

  • Ali Muhammad Shahwani M.Phil Scholar, Department of Sociology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan
  • Muhammad Anwer Assistant Professor/ HoD, Department of Physics, Government City College, Pakistan
  • Robina Bibi Phil Scholar, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
  • Umair Mehmood Ph.D. Scholar, Alhamd Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47067/ramss.v7i4.381

Keywords:

Digital Communication, Social Media, Texting, Language Adaptation, Code-Switching, Linguistic Innovation, Cultural Identity, Academic Language, Pakistani Students, NVivo Thematic Analysis

Abstract

This study explores the impact of social media and texting on language use and communication styles among university students in Punjab, Pakistan. With digital platforms becoming central to daily interactions, students increasingly engage in linguistic adaptations that blend traditional norms with digital influences. Using a qualitative methodology, this study involved semi-structured interviews and focus groups with a purposive sample of 10 students from multiple universities in Punjab. Data analysis through NVivo revealed nine key themes: Language Innovation, Code-Switching, Informal Tone, Brevity and Efficiency, Emotional Expression, Identity and Self-Expression, Conversational Dynamics, Cultural and Social Influence, and Academic Influence. The findings illustrate how students use abbreviations, emojis, and code-switching to communicate more efficiently while reflecting cultural and social identities. Additionally, students' informal tone in digital contexts often extends into academic settings, blurring lines between formal and casual language. Cultural dynamics, including peer influence and the interplay between Urdu and English, further shape digital communication practices, highlighting a generational shift in linguistic adaptability. This study contributes to the understanding of digital language evolution, offering insights into the educational and social implications of digital communication. It also underscores the need for educators to support students in navigating these linguistic shifts, balancing digital fluency with academic standards. Limitations include the sample size and focus on a specific region, suggesting future research could broaden demographic and contextual perspectives to further explore intergenerational dynamics in digital communication.

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Published

2024-11-01

How to Cite

Ali Muhammad Shahwani, Muhammad Anwer, Robina Bibi, & Umair Mehmood. (2024). The Impact of Social Media and Texting on Language Use and Communication Styles among Students in Punjab. Review of Applied Management and Social Sciences, 7(4), 287-302. https://doi.org/10.47067/ramss.v7i4.381