Shyness, Sociability, and the Use of Computer-Mediated Communication in Relationship Development

TLDR

Computer‑mediated communication provides a reduced‑cue, self‑identifiable environment that attracts individuals whose social inhibitions limit face‑to‑face sociability. The study tested whether people high in both shyness and sociability would express their true selves more online and experience faster, more satisfying relationship growth than others. Results largely confirmed the hypotheses, except the link between true‑self expression and CMC use, and the study discusses future research directions and therapeutic implications.

Abstract

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) offers its users a reduced-cues environment, a chosen degree of identifiability to others, and a forum to express facets of one's self. Previous research suggests CMC is more appealing than traditional forms of communication to certain individuals whose desires to be sociable with others are prohibited by social inhibitions. The present study predicted that individuals who indicated higher levels of both shyness and sociability would be able to express their true-selves to a greater extent online. Their relationships online would grow more quickly and be more satisfying relative to others. The pattern of results supports our hypotheses, except for the predicted relationship between true-self expression and CMC use. Suggestions for future research as well as implications for the application of CMC use in therapy for certain populations are addressed.