Online Relationships: Establishment, Maintenance and Trust in Virtual Communities.

Abstract Although there is substantial research focused on interactive, interpersonal communication online using computer mediated communication (CMC) there is little in the way of communication via established virtual communities where members can potentially create a ‘virtual self’. This study analyses the reasons behind why people join a particular community and how they create their own virtual identity. What attributes are important to them when they are creating their identity and what attributes are important when they are looking for others to communicate with and potentially establish relationships with.