Introduction
This case study is part of Dr. Terrell Neuage’s PhD thesis, Conversational Analysis of Chat Room Talk, conducted at the University of South Australia and archived at the National Library of Australia. It examines the dynamics of Instant Messaging (IM) conversations, focusing on textual interactions, social norms, and the interpretive complexities of online dialogue.
For the full thesis, contact the University of South Australia library.
Example IV: IM Conversation Analysis
Below is a fragment of an IM conversation between two mutual acquaintances who have never met in person. The dialogue, initially about spirituality, shifts to a sexual theme, highlighting the role of grammar, fonts, and abbreviations in online communication.
| Line | Speaker | Text |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ###### | WE WERE TOGETHER IN THE HAREMS OF CHINAS THRONE, THE GOOD OLDL DAYS |
| 2 | ###### | MINE |
| 3 | ****** | ah...one of those past life miracles |
| 4 | ###### | COOL LETTERS. I LIKE GRAPHICS AND BIG BLACK LETTERS, COOLNESS |
| 5 | ****** | oops....better get a little more humble again |
Key abbreviations include LOL (lots of laughs), IBE, and OBE. The conversation’s textual appearance reflects typing errors and deliberate stylistic choices, common in fast-paced IM exchanges.
Example V: Personal IM Dialogue
This example involves a dialogue where Dr. Neuage was a participant, allowing for deeper interpretive insight. The conversation shifts from light banter to serious topics, including suicidal ideation, highlighting the structured yet casual nature of IM exchanges.
| Line | Speaker | Text | Commentary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | @@@@@@ | Terrell......we will probably never meet on this plane | Initially interpreted as a reference to geographic distance. |
| 7 | @@@@@@ | I am am not going to be around too much longer | Indicates suicidal ideation. |
| 9 | @@@@@@ | on this plane | Clarifies intent to leave the world. |
This dialogue underscores the challenges of interpreting online conversations without tonal or gestural cues, especially with known participants.
Accessing the Full Thesis
The complete thesis, including all case studies and raw data, is available through the University of South Australia library. Due to domain changes, some original links are inactive. For further information, contact the library or visit the National Library of Australia.