Background of the Study
TikTok has rapidly transformed the digital media landscape, emerging as a platform where creative expression and storytelling intersect with everyday communication practices. In Nigeria, TikTok videos are not merely a source of entertainment but also a medium for the negotiation of pragmatic meaning in everyday discourse. Digital storytelling on TikTok often involves the use of contextually rich, multimodal narratives that blend visual cues, gestures, and language to convey meaning in innovative ways (Emeka, 2023). These practices challenge traditional forms of narrative and pragmatic norms, as creators employ humor, irony, and cultural references that resonate with a diverse audience (Nnaji, 2024). The evolving nature of TikTok content reflects broader socio-cultural dynamics and provides a fertile ground for exploring how pragmatic practices adapt in digital contexts. Moreover, the interactive features of TikTok enable rapid feedback and reinterpretation of stories, further influencing pragmatic choices. This study examines the intersection of digital storytelling and pragmatic practices in Nigerian TikTok videos, thereby contributing to our understanding of how digital platforms mediate cultural and communicative practices in contemporary society (Adisa, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
While TikTok has become a significant medium for digital storytelling, little research has focused on its impact on pragmatic practices among Nigerian content creators. There is a noticeable gap in understanding how multimodal communication on TikTok influences context, tone, and speaker intent. The challenge lies in deciphering the complex interplay between visual and verbal elements that define pragmatic meaning. Existing studies have predominantly focused on traditional media, leaving digital narratives underexplored (Olaleye, 2023). This lack of scholarly attention to TikTok’s influence on pragmatic practices hinders a comprehensive understanding of the evolving nature of digital communication. Addressing this gap is crucial for developing an integrated perspective on how digital storytelling reshapes everyday pragmatic interactions (Umeh, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
To analyze the pragmatic practices evident in Nigerian TikTok videos.
To examine how digital storytelling influences context and meaning negotiation.
To propose a framework for understanding pragmatic shifts in digital media.
Research Questions:
How do Nigerian TikTok videos exhibit changes in pragmatic practices?
What role does multimodality play in shaping digital narratives?
How does audience feedback influence pragmatic choices in digital storytelling?
Significance of the Study
The study is significant in that it offers a critical examination of how TikTok, as a digital platform, transforms pragmatic practices in Nigeria. It contributes to both digital media studies and pragmatics by providing insights into the interplay between visual and verbal storytelling. The findings have practical implications for educators, content creators, and policy makers interested in digital literacy and communication. This research bridges theoretical gaps and offers a fresh perspective on how modern digital practices are reshaping traditional modes of communication (Babatunde, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to the topic only.
Definitions of Terms:
TikTok Videos: Short-form videos produced on the TikTok platform.
Pragmatic Practices: The use of language in context to convey intended meaning.
Digital Storytelling: The practice of using digital media to create and share narratives.
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