An Analysis of Code-Switching Patterns in Multilingual Social Media Discourse

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the phenomenon of code-switching in multilingual social media discourse, focusing on the patterns and functions of code-switching among users of various languages in online communication platforms. The research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of how code-switching is employed in social media interactions, shedding light on the linguistic, sociolinguistic, and communicative aspects of this complex linguistic behavior. The study begins with an examination of the background of code-switching in linguistics, providing a theoretical framework for understanding the phenomenon in the context of multilingual communication. Drawing on existing literature and research on code-switching, the thesis explores the different perspectives and approaches to analyzing code-switching, highlighting its significance as a communicative strategy in multilingual settings. The research methodology section outlines the approach taken in collecting and analyzing data from various social media platforms. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including discourse analysis and sociolinguistic surveys, the study aims to identify and categorize different types of code-switching patterns observed in online interactions. The methodology also considers the ethical implications of conducting research on public social media data. The findings chapter presents a detailed analysis of the code-switching patterns identified in the data, examining the linguistic features, functions, and motivations behind code-switching behavior in social media discourse. The discussion delves into the role of code-switching in constructing identity, building solidarity, and negotiating power dynamics in online communities, highlighting the complex interplay of language, culture, and social interaction in multilingual spaces. The conclusion chapter summarizes the key findings of the study, emphasizing the importance of code-switching as a dynamic and versatile linguistic resource in online communication. The thesis concludes with implications for future research on code-switching in digital communication contexts, highlighting the need for further investigation into the sociolinguistic dynamics of multilingual social media discourse. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on code-switching by offering a detailed analysis of its patterns and functions in the context of multilingual social media interactions. By exploring the rich complexities of code-switching behavior online, this research provides valuable insights into the ways in which language is used to construct social identities and facilitate communication in diverse linguistic environments.