RESEARCH METHODOLOGY FOR THE ANALYSIS OF MODALITY IN SOCIAL NETWORKING PLATFORMS

Abstract

 This study explores a research methodology for analyzing modality in social networking platforms and examines how modal expressions function in digital communication. Social media environments have created new forms of discourse where users frequently express attitudes, opinions, and levels of certainty through linguistic markers of modality. The research focuses on identifying modal verbs, modal adverbs, and hedging expressions used in online posts and comments. By applying discourse analysis and qualitative linguistic methods, the study investigates how modality contributes to expressing stance, evaluation, and interpersonal interaction in social networking communication. The findings indicate that modal expressions are widely used to convey uncertainty, obligation, and persuasion, while also interacting with digital features such as emojis and hashtags. The proposed methodological framework provides a useful approach for studying language variation and communicative practices in contemporary digital discourse.