AO1

• Absence of gating – face to face relationships often fail to form because of obstacles such as facial disfigurements that some people might find off-putting. These barriers or gates are absent in computer-medicated communication allowing virtual relationships to begin in a way they couldn’t in the offline world. 
• relationships have become increasingly digitally centred through various forms of CMC- computer-mediated communication. These interactions introduce new dynamics not explored in face to face interactions. 
• Who created the Reduced Cues theory?

  Keiser and Sproull
• What does the Reduced Cues theory suggest about computer-mediated communication (CMC)?

  It suggests that CMC has poorer levels of intimacy and slower self-disclosure due to the lack of cues.
• What are some cues that are present in face-to-face interactions but absent in virtual interactions according to the Reduced Cues theory?

  Facial expressions and voice intonation
• How does the absence of cues in virtual interactions affect self-disclosure?

  It hinders self-disclosure and early intimacy.
• What is de-individuation in the context of Reduced Cues theory?


  It is when people behave in a more blunt or impersonal way due to the absence of cues.
• Why might someone be unlikely to initiate a relationship with a person who is perceived as impersonal?

  Because they may not want to reveal their innermost feelings to them.
• What are the implications of Reduced Cues theory on relationships formed through computer-mediated communication?

  • Poorer levels of intimacy
  • Slower rates of self-disclosure
  • Increased likelihood of de-individuation
  • Challenges in initiating relationships
• Anonymity 

  • Another aspect of CMC that promotes self-disclosure and makes relationships hyperpersonal is anonymity.  
  • Bargh et al. point out that the outcome of this is rather like the 'strangers on a train effect' in FtF relationships. When you're aware that other people do not know your identity, you feel less accountable for your behaviour.  
  • So you may well disclose more about yourself to a stranger than to even your most intimate partner.  
• What does the term "gating" refer to in virtual relationships?

  Gating refers to the obstacles or barriers that might influence the choice of a potential partner.
• How do physical appearance and social cues function as gates in face-to-face interactions?

  They serve as obstacles that influence the choice of a potential partner.
• What is the effect of the absence of physical and social gates in online relationships?

  It allows relationships to progress more quickly.
• What advantage of computer-mediated communication (CMC) do McKenna and Bargh highlight?

  The absence of gating allows for more frequent and deeper self-disclosure in relationships.
• What is an example of how gating is minimized in the show "The Voice"?


  The judges look away from the contestants while they sing.
• What does the absence of gating allow individuals to do in online relationships?

  It allows individuals to create online identities that they could never manage face-to-face.
• How can the concept of a "second life" be described in the context of online relationships?

  • A second life allows individuals to create any type of avatar.
  • It represents the freedom to express oneself in virtual reality.
  • It exemplifies the absence of gating in online interactions.
• What is an avatar used for in virtual reality?


  To represent themselves
• How do nonverbal signals function in virtual environments?

  They serve as digital cues that convey tone and intent
• What are some examples of nonverbal signals mentioned in the study material?

  Emojis, acronyms, and the timing of messages
• What assumption is challenged by the use of nonverbal signals in online communication?

  The assumption that online communication is entirely impersonal
• What are the key dynamics involved in virtual relationships?

  • Self-disclosure
  • Selective self-presentation
  • Presence or absence of gating
• Why is it important to understand the differences between virtual relationships and face-to-face interactions?

  It is key to navigating relationships in the digital age
• Despite its insights, the Hyperpersonal Model and related theories may not fully capture the complexities of modern relationships, which often blend online and face-to-face elements (Walther, 2011). The pressure to maintain consistent identities across both mediums can complicate the dynamics of self-disclosure and gating 
• Studies like those by Whitty and Johnson (2009) show that online communication often involves more direct questions and selective self-disclosure, supporting the idea that people can craft their online personas to influence how others perceive them. 
• What does the Hyperpersonal Model suggest about online relationships?

  Online relationships can develop rapidly and intensely, often experiencing a "boom and bust" cycle.
• Why is initial self-disclosure high in online relationships according to the Hyperpersonal Model?


  Because individuals can carefully choose what to share with each other.
• How do online interactions affect self-disclosure?

  Online interactions allow individuals to control how they present themselves, which can accelerate self-disclosure.
• What is a potential drawback of online interactions regarding trust and intimacy?

  The lack of nonverbal cues can prevent trust and intimacy from developing at the same pace.
• What can lead to unbalanced relationships in online interactions?

  The high excitement level of the interaction not being matched by the level of trust.
• What do Cooper and Sportolari refer to as the 'boom and bust phenomenon'?

  It describes the cycle of rapid development and quick ending of online relationships.
• How can online interactions promote intimacy?

  By self-presenting in a positive and idealized way.
• What are the key features of the Hyperpersonal Model in online relationships?

  • Rapid and intense development
  • High initial self-disclosure
  • Control over self-presentation
  • Lack of nonverbal cues affecting trust and intimacy
  • 'Boom and bust phenomenon'
  • Promotion of intimacy through idealized self-presentation