Impoliteness and Complaint Strategies in Anonymous Online Discourse: A Pragmatic Analysis of Um Confession Facebook Posts

This qualitative study explored the landscape of online complaint posts found on the UM Confession Facebook page, focusing on the expression of complaint and impoliteness strategies within this widely-used anonymous sharing platform. Utilizing pragmatic analysis alongside theoretical frameworks including Trosborg’s (1994) complaint strategies, Culpeper’s (1996) impoliteness frameworks, Searle’s (1979) illocutionary forces framework, and Leech’s (1983) politeness maxims, a dataset comprising 60 individual complaint posts from the UM Confession Facebook page was gathered and examined to discern prevalent patterns. The results unveiled a predominance of direct complaint strategies, often facilitated by the platform’s anonymity, alongside a nuanced utilization of positive impoliteness strategies. Notably, the tact maxim emerged as the most frequently violated politeness maxim, highlighting the tension between personal expression and social harmony within the digital realm. These findings illuminate the intricacies of online communication and pave the way for future research endeavors. Thus, prospective studies could delve deeper into understanding the impact of anonymity on online discourse, conduct comparative analyses across diverse online platforms, and explore intervention strategies aimed at fostering positive digital engagement and community well-being.