Suggestive Analysis Method  as a Tool for Identifying Speech Influence Mechanisms in English-Language Horoscope Discourse

M. V. Vlavatskaya

doi:10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-108-128

Suggestive Analysis Method as a Tool for Identifying Speech Influence Mechanisms in English-Language Horoscope Discourse

M. V. Vlavatskaya

https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-108-128

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Abstract

This study examines the mechanisms of suggestive influence embedded in horoscope discourse. Suggestion is defined as a specific psychological method through which a suggestor exerts influence on a suggestee. The research identifies its key characteristics: on the one hand, conscious, intrusive, and purposeful manipulation; on the other, uncritical perception and complete trust on the part of the recipient. The empirical material consists of English-language horoscope texts sourced from Horoscope.com and Yourtango.com. The paper proposes and substantiates a method of suggestive analysis aimed at revealing the mechanisms of speech influence in horoscope texts. The method comprises three analytical stages. The first stage involves structural and compositional analysis, including the identification and description of traditional horoscope elements. The second stage entails linguostylistic analysis, focusing on the selection of specific linguistic means and stylistic devices. The third stage is dedicated to identifying speech influence mechanisms at the socio-psychological level. The findings demonstrate that the primary mechanisms of suggestive speech influence include the creation of a personalized effect, the activation of imagination, and the establishment of an atmosphere of trust. It is noted that these techniques ensure effective manipulation of the recipient’s perception in accordance with the genre’s specifics.

Keywords

suggestion, suggestor, suggestee, horoscope, text composition, stylistic devices

About the Author

M. V. Vlavatskaya

Novosibirsk State Technical University
Russian Federation

Marina V. Vlavatskaya – Doctor of Philology, Professor, Department of Foreign Languages Faculty of Humanities

Novosibirsk

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Review

For citations:

Vlavatskaya M.V. Suggestive Analysis Method as a Tool for Identifying Speech Influence Mechanisms in English-Language Horoscope Discourse. Nauchnyi dialog. 2026;15(4):108-128. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-108-128

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