Virtual relationships

Question 1

What is the reduced cues theory?

Answer 1

• VR lack nonverbal cues to our emotional state such as facial expressions and tone
• causes deindividualization and may encourage disinhibition and the use of blunt/aggressive communication
• the outcome may be a reluctance to self disclose bc the other person is offensive
• suggests VR are less effective than face to face

Question 2

What is the hyperpersonal model

Answer 2

• VR can be more personal and involve greater SD, they develop quickly and SD happens earlier and is more intense and intimate

Question 3

What are the two key features of Hyperpersonal model

Answer 3

• The sender had greater control of what to disclose and the cues than if they were face-to-face. selective self-representation. The sender manipulates their self-image to present themselves in an idealised way
• Receiver of msgs gains +ve impression of the sender and may give feedback that reinforces the senders selective self presentation e.g compliments

Question 4

What is anonymity?

Answer 4

SD with ppl online is like the ‘strangers on a train’ phenomenon
we’re more likely to self disclose info to ppl we don’t know and probs won’t see again

Question 5

What is a gate?

Answer 5

Any obstacle to forming a relationship