Impression formation and attraction in computer-mediated communication [electronic resource]
說明
193 p
附註
Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 62-09, Section: A, page: 3199
Adviser: Timothy Biblarz
Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Southern California, 2001
This is a study about relationships formed over computer networks. This study attempts to find out how people become attracted to one another and form relationships online, given the lack of physical proximity and cues such as eye contact, body language, etc. which have been seen as critical to the formation of attraction. Quantitative data gathered from a web-based survey of 513 participants was used, as well as qualitative personal narratives of people's experiences of online relationships. Results showed that sociobiological theories of attraction were supported online, though results were mixed for geographic proximity and for homogamy of religion and race, with quite a few transracial relationships being formed. A popularly held notion about the Internet is that people are more likely to construct false identities there compared to face-to-face interactions, given a greater ability to manage the verbal and non-verbal signs online which are dues to their gender, social class, race, etc. Using Goffman's theory of impression management and literature on deception in communication, this study compared the first impression people formed online with the “second impression” formed offline, and the reason for any disparity in the two impressions. Results showed that most people were honest with each other online, and the majority of participants reported being as or more attracted to their online lovers with increased information via phone calls, photos exchanged and face to face meetings. Most mis-impressions in these relationships were the result of respondents “filling in the blanks” incorrectly, or idealization, rather than being victims of overt deception. Many of these relationships lead to marriage or cohabitation, suggesting the Internet may be a way people are forming real, lasting relationships. Future research into the process of projection and idealization is needed. Also, longitudinal research is needed to see if these relationships are more viable long term than those formed in face-to-face contexts. Lastly, more research is needed to assess why some relationships never move out of the online environment to a face-to-face meeting
