“Degree and Reciprocity of Self-Disclosure in Online Forums”
Barak, Azy & Gluck-Ofri, Orit (2007). Degree and Reciprocity of Self-Disclosure in Online Forums. Vol.10. Cyberspace & Technology.
The article I chose to write a review on focuses on an area that I find to be quite relevant and real in today’s world. As Barak and Gluck-Ofri state, “Cyberspace has become a social environment in which people interact and operate in many ways.” Within this environment the question that many have, including the psychology world is how one interacts in a virtual world. Is self-disclosure easier to convey in an online environment than in a face-to-face interaction?
The study they conducted looked at two social environments, discussion forums and online support groups. Types of disclosures closely researched consisted of what types of information, thoughts and feelings were conveyed through first messages and responses received. The study group used included both a male and female gender, however were not age specific. Results indicated that of the participants more respondent’s self-disclosed information in an online support group than in discussion forms.
Online communication emerges in all facets of life. Psychologists understand that this is a market of great value as well as an opportunity of influence if more individuals move towards utilizing an online social environment.
Questions still remain however as to how well we know how individuals really self-disclose personal information in a virtual world. The authors agree that more thorough research needs to be conducted before determining that this environment will benefit from that type of forum. I could not agree further. We need to be extremely careful in making an assumption that online environments are safer for disclosure than in a face-to-face interaction.
Nicole
No comments:
Post a Comment