ABSTRACT
Jenn McKee's blog about an unexpected online encounter highlights the role of framing and expectations in infidelity. In today society many of our interactions have moved online, and some argue that online communication is replacing face-to-face interaction and changing our social worlds. Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) references two or more individuals using networked computers in order to convey messages. Even though some research suggests that students prefer online communication, face-to-face contact is still considered more helpful. In fact, CMC is useful for maintaining existing friendships because of the availability of constant contact. McKee in her blog entry, for example, expects that connecting with an old friend from college over Facebook chat would mean appropriate self-disclosure between two former friends. CMC may facilitate talk about intimate topics, especially for shy or socially anxious individuals, and intimate disclosures result in relationships that are stronger and higher quality.
