Virtual Relationships In Social Media

Question 1

Why do Sproull and Kiesler suggest that computer-mediated communication (CMC) relationships are less effective that FtF ones?

Answer 1

• because they lack many of the cues which we normally depend on in FtF interactions.
• these include non-verbal cues like facial physical appearance.

Question 2

What cues to CMC relationships especially lack and what does this lead to?

Answer 2

• lacks cues to our emotional state, such as our facial expressions and tone of voice which leads to de-individualisation because it reduces people’s sense of individual identity, which in turn encourages disinhibition in relating to others.

Question 3

What are virtual relationships more likely to involve?

Answer 3

• blunt and even aggressive communication.

Question 4

How does the reduced cues theory affect relationships?

Answer 4

• someone is unlikely to want an intimate relationship with someone who is so impersonal, or reveal your intermost feelings to them.