Signaling outrage is a signal about the sender: moral
perceptions of online flaming

Signaling outrage is a signal about the sender: moral
perceptions of online flaming

flaming, moral outrage, morality, computer-mediated communication, toxicity

Most flaming research addresses explanations for and the immediate effects of flaming on those engaging in and targeted by flaming.

However, online interactions are increasingly visible, suggesting that understanding third-party evaluations of flaming is important. By integrat-
ing considerations in computer-mediated communication theorizing with the social-perceptual effects of online moral outrage, we explore how

third-party observers evaluate flaming, also assessing beliefs about the signaling social function that flaming serves. In seven experiments (total
N 1⁄4 3,178), we manipulated the intentionality of triggering events and compared flaming to other types of online responses (less-toxic criticism;
supportive), measuring reactions including moral regard, comment approval, and positive/negative engagement. Findings suggest that flaming
may sometimes act as exculpable moral outrage when responding to egregious behaviors. However, contrary to participants’ beliefs, flaming
does not reliably or persuasively influence perceptions of those whom it targets; rather, it mostly appears to send negative signals about
the flamer.

Charles Kevin Monge 1,�, Sean M. Laurent

https://doi.org/10.1093/jcmc/zmae001

Oxford University Press on behalf of International Communication Association.

January 19, 2024

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