Does Virtual Intimacy Exist? A Brief Exploration Into Reported Levels Of Intimacy In Online Relationships

Abstract

This study examined the levels of intimacy reported by individuals in face-to-face and computer-mediated (or virtual ) romantic relationships. As suggested by the media and promised by online dating services, some degree of intimacy was reported in computer-mediated relationships, but stronger intimacy was reported in all participants\u27 face-to-face relationships. Results also indicated that individuals who had online, virtual relationships reported less intimacy in their own face-to-face relationships compared to individuals who had engaged exclusively in face-to-face relationships, suggesting that people may turn to virtual relating after challenges in their face-to-face experiences. © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc