Outline and evaluate the nature of virtual relationships in social media

What is the hyperpersonal model in virtual relationships?

Proposed by Walther, it suggests self-disclosure happens earlier online than face-to-face. Online relationships become more intense and meaningful, but may also end quickly.

How does anonymity affect self-disclosure in virtual relationships?

Anonymity reduces fear of rejection or ridicule, so people may feel safer sharing personal information online than in real life.

What does the hyperpersonal model say about online image control?

It argues people can carefully manage their self-presentation online, choosing what to disclose and creating a more idealised version of themselves.

What is the reduced cues theory in virtual relationships?

Sproull and Kiesler’s theory says that online communication lacks non-verbal cues (e.g. tone, facial expressions), leading to de-individuation and possibly less honest or more aggressive behaviour.

What is meant by the ‘absence of gating’ in virtual relationships?

Online, physical appearance, age or ethnicity (gates) are less visible. This allows shy or less attractive individuals to form connections based on self-disclosure, not superficial barriers.

✅Strength – Research support for self-disclosure differences

Whitty & Joinson found online interactions are often more direct, intimate, and honest. This supports the hyperpersonal model, showing virtual self-disclosure differs from face-to-face.

❌Limitation – Low temporal validity

Much research is from the 1990s–2000s, but technology and social media evolve rapidly. Findings may be outdated and not reflect how modern platforms like TikTok or Instagram shape relationships

✅Strength – Research support for absence of gating

McKenna & Bargh found that socially anxious people were better able to express their true selves online. 70% of their online relationships lasted over two years, supporting the idea that online settings can help people form stable relationships.

❌Limitation – Overly simplistic to separate online and offline relationships

Walther (2011) argued that most relationships use both online and offline communication. Our self-disclosure is shaped by interactions across platforms, making it inaccurate to study them in isolation.