The Power of Punctuation

The Power of Punctuation in Text Messaging

• A punctuation mark, particularly the period, can wield a lot of power in text messaging and can be misinterpreted as conveying anger or passive-aggression.
• Katherine Rooks, a Denver-based writer, experienced this firsthand when her son misinterpreted a text message she sent him, thinking she was angry because she ended the message with a period.

The Evolution of the Period in Text Messaging

• According to linguist Gretchen McCulloch, the period has lost its original purpose in text messaging since it's no longer necessary to indicate the end of a sentence, as hitting send on a message can accomplish this.
• The period has taken on a new role, indicating seriousness or a sense of finality, but caution is needed when combining it with positive sentiments to avoid creating a sense of passive-aggression.

The Limitations of Text Messaging

• Text messaging lacks the expressive features of face-to-face verbal communication, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and pausing, which can lead to misunderstandings.
• People have repurposed punctuation, including the period, to convey emotional and interpersonal information in text messaging.

The Impact of Periods on Perceived Tone

• A 2015 study by Binghamton University psychology professor Celia Klin found that adding a period to a text message can make the message seem less friendly, less sincere, and more negative.
• Many young adults, including Juan Abenante Rincon and Emma Gometz, find text messages that end in periods to be harsh and passive-aggressive.
• However, context plays a role, and some individuals, like Isabelle Kravis, are less likely to interpret a period as aggressive depending on the conversation.

A text message misunderstanding between a mother and son leads to tension and confusion. Learn how punctuation can greatly impact communication.