LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 26:1 January 2026
ISSN 1930-2940

Editors:
         Selvi M. Bunce, M.A., Ph.D. Candidate
         Nathan Mulder Bunce, M.A., Ph.D.
         Sam Mohanlal, Ph.D.
         B. Mallikarjun, Ph.D.
         A. R. Fatihi, Ph.D.
         G. Baskaran, Ph.D.
         T. Deivasigamani, Ph.D.
         Pammi Pavan Kumar, Ph.D.
         Soibam Rebika Devi, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Honorary Managing Editor & Publisher: M. S. Thirumalai, Ph.D.

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Sociocultural and Media Influence on Gen Z Communication Practices

Vikasini S and
Dr. Sreejana S

Abstract

This study examines the influence of sociocultural factors and digital media on communication practices among Gen Z users. The research is based on a percentage-based survey conducted with 94 respondents, of whom 91.5% belong to the Gen Z age group. Using a structured questionnaire, the study analyses patterns of media usage, preferred communication modes, and language choices in formal and informal contexts. The findings indicate a strong preference for informal digital communication, frequent use of slang and emojis, and conscious adjustment of tone based on audience and setting. While most respondents retain formal language in academic or professional situations, many report lower confidence in formal communication compared to informal communication. The study highlights how continuous exposure to informal digital environments shapes communication habits among Gen Z users.

Keywords:Gen Z Communication, Digital Media Influence, Sociocultural Factors, Informal Digital Language, Register Switching, Communication Practices

Introduction

Communication practices are shaped by sociocultural environments and digital media rather than by formal instruction alone. Platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok encourage brief and informal interactions, which have become normalized through repeated use. As a result, younger generations have developed strong fluency in casual expression but often experience difficulty using structured and formal language in academic or professional contexts. This shift affects the authenticity and professionalism of communication.

This study focuses on how media influence correlates with cultural norms and peer influence within the community. It also examines how and why younger generations choose different modes of communication and how continuous exposure to informal digital language affects confidence, accuracy, and professionalism in formal communication settings.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Vikasini S
I Year CSE Student, Kumaraguru College of Technology,
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India.
vikasini.25cs@kct.ac.in
&
Dr. Sreejana S
Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Languages and Communication,
Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
sreejana.s.sci@kct.ac.in
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