This study adds to research on digital interactions by exploring the role of emoji use patterns in online dating among young adults. Focus group data suggest emojis play a similar role as non-verbal behaviors do in an offline context, where coordination is used to ascertain mutual interest. The data shows how the degree of synchronization in emoji use patterns (such as frequency, types, and style) is used as a feedback tool to assess a chat partner's romantic fit. Attunement of emoji use patterns between the partners is also used to signal and gage interest, for example by using suggestive emojis to “test” the other partner's interest and intentions, or to establish a shared mood. Conversely, a lack of reciprocity is experienced as awkward or wrong and can produce insecurity and doubt. To understand this back-and-forth process of mutual suggestion and attunement, we propose a modified version of Collins’ interaction ritual model. In this model, we highlight the importance of shared interpretative schemas and interaction scripts, which set normative expectations for how emoji patterns can be used to build sexual or romantic chemistry.

这项研究通过探索表情符号使用模式在年轻人在线约会中的作用，为数字交互研究提供了补充。焦点小组的数据表明，表情符号与离线环境中的非语言行为具有相似的作用，在这种情况下，协调用于确定共同的兴趣。数据显示了表情符号使用模式（例如频率，类型和样式）中的同步程度如何用作反馈工具来评估聊天伙伴的浪漫状况。伙伴之间的表情符号使用模式的调整也用于表示和衡量兴趣，例如，通过使用暗示性表情符号来“测试”另一伙伴的兴趣和意图，或建立共同的情绪。相反，缺乏互惠是尴尬或错误的经历，会引起不安全感和怀疑。为了理解这种相互建议和协调的来回过程，我们提出了柯林斯互动仪式模型的修改版本。在此模型中，我们强调了共享的解释性模式和交互脚本的重要性，这为表情符号模式如何用于构建性或浪漫化学设定了规范性期望。