Code-Switching in Albanian-English Online Communication: A Sociolinguistic Analysis of Social Media Discourse

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence, patterns, motivations, and societal impacts of code-switching in online communication between Albanian and English. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines survey data from 112 participants—who were divided into three groups: Albania, Kosovo, and the diaspora—with content analysis of social media speech. The results show that code-switching, which is influenced by linguistic ability, audience composition, and cultural identity, is a common behavior among Albanian speakers online. According to the study, code-switching can be used for a variety of purposes, such as engagement with multilingual audiences, emotional expression, and emphasis. Since people view code-switching as a type of linguistic flexibility rather than a language deficit, attitudes toward it are generally favorable. The study does, however, acknowledge many limitations, including those pertaining to sample size, platform-specific focus, and the dynamic character of digital communication.