I read that only 10% of the communication is verbal, 90% is the body language. Off coruse in many cases, 10% would do but where emotions are involved, you need to listen to the body language of the other person.
I know that when my 3 1/2 years old is real angry and emotionally hurt, she screams at me .. go away .. but all she wants me to lift her up and hug her.
so when it comesto online communication or text messages...thats where smilies come in.