Astro-numeric communication: Identity, uncertainty, and relational meaning in digitally mediated social interaction

Abstract The increasing prominence of astrology and numerology in digital culture signals a shift from private beliefs to shared communicative frameworks. Despite their popularity among younger, digitally engaged users, the communicative functions of these systems have received limited scholarly attention. This study reconceptualises astrology and numerology as symbolic communication structures, rather than as predictive or deterministic systems. These structures facilitate identity construction, navigating relational uncertainty, and creating interpersonal meaning. The analysis draws upon Social Identity Theory, Uncertainty Reduction Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism, employing qualitative document analysis of peer-reviewed literature and digital media from 2000 to 2025. Thematic synthesis indicates that astro-numeric systems function as informal codes, shaping self-disclosure, perceptions of others, and the framing of relationships. These systems enable users to categorise themselves and others, reduce ambiguity in social interactions, and establish shared interpretive frameworks. The analysis also identifies major limitations, including the reinforcement of stereotypes, the promotion of essentialist thinking, and the potential constraint of individual agency. Internet platforms have amplified the prevalence of these systems, transforming them into common social scripts within everyday life. The study describes Astro-Numeric Communication Theory (ANCT), a framework that examines the interaction between symbolic beliefs and communication processes, and their influence on identity and relationships. ANCT broadens communication theory through incorporating non-traditional symbols inside the study of meaning-making and interpersonal interaction. Future studies should employ surveys, interviews, and cross-cultural designs. Key Words: Astrology; Numerology; Interpersonal Communication; Symbolic Interactionism; Social Identity; Uncertainty Reduction; Digital Media About the Author * Halima Oyintiladun Adekunle is a doctoral student in Media and Communications at Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, Nigeria. Her research interests include digital communication, media effects, news literacy, health communication, childhood communication, and spiritual communication. Her doctoral research examines the influence of social media commentary on news literacy among youths in Lagos State, exploring how influencer narratives, peer interactions, and online discussions shape the way young people understand and evaluate news. JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 18, No. 2, October 2026, pp. 47-55. © Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON). Article Citation Adekunle, H. O. (2026). Astro-numeric communication: Identity, uncertainty, and relational meaning in digitally mediated social interaction. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 18 (2): 47-55. Full Article Words: 5,142 Pages: 9 To access full article, click on download.