Yes! Exactly! I always use stuff like that to give my text a certain tone, or make something seem funnier, or just because it works better with than without. XD And I also use made up words like "meh" and "wha?" and "buh" and "bleh" and the like, mostly because it seems more realistic that way since people say almost-words all the time in real life.

And that's a really great theory about it! I honestly think you're on to something because there does seem to be a dehumanizing quality to a lot of internet culture, especially with the cult of "Anonymous" that has become so popular lately. I mean, it's fine if you want to go anon, but the way it's done, people who post under a name get looked down on. I know I've drawn my share of "namefag" insults in my time.