The Benefit of Building Cyber Relationships

       Using the Internet to form relationships can be a positive aspect of someone's life who suffers from any physical attribute that causes social exclusion. "The interpersonal connections with strangers made possible by electronic media may be particularly valuable for youth suffering from illnesses, such as AIDS, eating disorders, and self-injurious behavior, about which they may not feel comfortable talking with their friends in person"(Kaveri, Greenfield, P. 2008).

       Creating an online identity for individuals who are socially out casted based on physical appearances gives confidence in knowing they may find solace in their "virtual" world. Not every relationship established online involves a romantic aspect, some relationships can be seen more as friendships. Virtual chat rooms can be accessed for people looking to escape their loneliness and depression, and talk to people who suffer from the same issues. Online chat rooms and bulletins allow people across the world to connect, establishing a constant support network. The anonymity allows individuals to feel more at ease discussing their personal struggles and inquiries, without the social anxiety of having to discuss these issues with someone face to face.  A study was done experimenting the use of chatrooms with cancer patients, results included that fellow patients shared personal experiences and advice, building a type of cyber community providing patient-to-patient support for cancer victims.

       Even individuals who are generally healthy and do not suffer from social exclusion utilise the benefit of forming online relationships to talk about embarassing topics or ask difficult questions. Often these questions fall into the topics of sexuality and health, relating to matters regarding sexuality and interpersonal relations. These forums allow individuals to receive advice and personal opinions without feeling like they have exposed too much of themselves. This type of support is crucial for individuals who do not hold the confidence to discuss personal matters in face  to face situations, or discuss these matters without the fear of being judged because of it. Due to the fact that the Internet “never sleeps”, at any time of the day at any point during the week, you are able to be instantly connected with someone. This varies from offline communication in the sense that not everyone you choose to go to for support may be available to you in such a convenient manner. Instantaneously, you can be connected on a global scale, to a variety of health care professionals and individuals alike to reach out to and seek comfort.

       Although many websites and journal articles lead to discrediting the formation of online relationships, they may often be beneficial for those who cannot find comfort in other avenues. Online chatrooms and other communication platforms allow many individuals who suffer from a variety of different problems with a sort of safe haven.

Citations:

Subrahmanyam, K., Greenfield, P., Tynes, B. “Constructing Sexuality and Identity in an Online Chatroom”, Journal of Applied Developmental Pshychology 25, no. 6 (2004) : 651-66.