Phonetic Variation and Identity: Examining Regional Accents in Social Media Discourse

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between phonetic variation and identity by examining regional accents in social media discourse. In an increasingly digital world, social media platforms serve as vital spaces for individuals to express their identities, often through the use of regional accents in audio and video content. This research employs qualitative analysis of user-generated posts, including videos and voice notes, to investigate how speakers utilize their accents to convey cultural belonging, authenticity, and personal narratives. The findings reveal that regional accents not only serve as markers of identity but also influence audience perception and engagement, affecting how content is received and shared. Additionally, the study highlights the role of social media in both preserving and transforming regional accents, as speakers adapt their phonetic features to fit the platform’s audience. By analyzing the dynamics of accent use in social media, this research contributes to the understanding of how digital communication shapes linguistic identity and social interaction. Ultimately, the study underscores the significance of phonetic variation as a means of asserting identity in contemporary discourse, offering insights into the evolving landscape of language in the digital age.

Keywords: phonetic variation, identity, regional accents, social media, discourse analysis, cultural belonging, audience perception, digital communication.