Background of the study
TikTok has rapidly emerged as a global platform where creative digital storytelling is at the forefront of communication. In Nigeria, TikTok trends have influenced pragmatic practices by altering how individuals convey meaning, negotiate context, and interact socially. The platform’s short-form videos encourage the use of concise yet context-rich narratives that challenge traditional storytelling methods (Ifeoma, 2023). Nigerian content creators often employ innovative pragmatic strategies, blending humor, irony, and cultural references to captivate diverse audiences. This phenomenon has led to a reexamination of pragmatic norms as digital storytelling becomes a primary mode of communication among youth (Chukwuemeka, 2024). Comparative analyses suggest that TikTok trends have accelerated pragmatic shifts, fostering a language of visual and verbal cues that diverges from conventional practices (Adesina, 2023). The study aims to appraise the impact of TikTok trends on Nigerian pragmatic practices by examining digital storytelling techniques. By comparing traditional storytelling with contemporary digital narratives, the research explores the evolution of meaning-making in a rapidly changing media landscape (Nnamdi, 2025). This investigation is expected to offer valuable insights into how digital trends shape pragmatic communication and influence social interactions.
Statement of the problem
While TikTok has revolutionized digital storytelling, there is a noticeable gap in research regarding its impact on Nigerian pragmatic practices. Existing literature predominantly addresses visual trends without examining the underlying pragmatic shifts in meaning negotiation and contextual communication (Olu, 2023). The lack of comparative studies between traditional storytelling methods and TikTok’s innovative narrative styles hinders a full understanding of the platform’s influence on communication practices. Additionally, current research does not adequately address how digital trends affect social interaction norms and cultural expressions within Nigeria (Eke, 2024). Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the extent to which TikTok trends drive pragmatic changes, comparing them with conventional storytelling practices to reveal significant linguistic and social implications.
Objectives of the study
1. To evaluate the impact of TikTok trends on Nigerian pragmatic practices.
2. To compare digital storytelling techniques with traditional narrative forms.
3. To propose strategies for integrating digital pragmatic insights into communication studies.
Research questions
1. How do TikTok trends influence pragmatic practices in Nigerian digital storytelling?
2. What are the key differences between digital and traditional narrative techniques?
3. How can the findings inform future research and communication policies?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines the influence of TikTok trends on Nigerian pragmatic practices and digital storytelling. By comparing contemporary narrative methods with traditional approaches, the research offers insights into evolving communication strategies. The findings will inform academic debates on media and linguistics, providing a basis for updating communication curricula and policy guidelines. Furthermore, the study highlights the transformative power of digital trends on social interaction and cultural expression. It contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between technology and pragmatics, fostering further inquiry in digital communication (Adeniyi, 2023; Balogun, 2024). This research expands theoretical knowledge and applications.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to assessing TikTok trends and their effect on Nigerian pragmatic practices in digital storytelling. It focuses exclusively on digital narrative techniques and excludes other social media platforms and offline storytelling contexts.
Definitions of terms
• TikTok Trends: Popular content themes and narrative styles emerging on TikTok.
• Pragmatic Practices: The use of language in context to achieve effective communication.
• Digital Storytelling: The practice of using digital media to narrate stories and convey messages.
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