Computer mediated communication (CMC) encompasses a wide variety of electronic communication methods through which relationships can be formed
self-disclosure
revealing personal information about yourself
general evaluation
they address CMC as a single construct.However, many argue that the effect of self-disclosure will depend on the type of CMC - on social network sites like Facebook people tend to also have a relationship in the outside world and therefore people will disclose more. However, on internet dating sites self-disclosure is reduced because both parties anticipate meeting in the future. This doesn’t exist on online gaming sites and chatrooms Researchers argue that any theory that sees CMC as a single construct cannot be completely valid explanation
general evaluation
research into virtual relationships is that it hasn’t considered the difference between males and females.For example, evolutionary theory would state that females would be concerned with making themselves seem more attractive and youthful to attract a mate whereas males might want to appear like they have more resources. This suggests that there may be a beta gender bias in this area of research as neither theory suggests that there are gender differences in how CMC is used. Therefore theories into virtual relationships may not be applicable to everyone.
