Interpersonal Effects in Computer-Mediated Interaction
1992/02/01 by Joseph B. Walther, JOSEPH B. WALTHER · 2,467 citations
Computer Science · Psychology · Social Sciences · #Cognitive psychology #Communication #Computer science #Computer-mediated communication #Digital Communication and Language #Field (mathematics) #Interpersonal communication #Interpersonal interaction #Interpersonal relationship #Knowledge Management and Sharing #Linguistics #Nonverbal communication #Psychology #Situational ethics #Social psychology #Task (project management) #Team Dynamics and Performance #The Internet #Tone (literature) #World Wide Web
paper · doi:10.1177/009365092019001003
published in Communication Research 19(1), 52-90 (SAGE Publishing)
openalex publication_date 1992/02/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/05
Abstract
Several theories and much experimental research on relational tone in computer-mediated communication (CMC) points to the lack of nonverbal cues in this channel as a cause of impersonal and task-oriented messages. Field research in CMC often reports more positive relational behavior. This article examines the assumptions, methods, and findings of such research and suggests that negative relational effects are confined to narrow situational boundary conditions. Alternatively, it is suggested that communicators develop individuating impressions of others through accumulated CMC messages. Based upon these impressions, users may develop relationships and express multidimensional relational messages through verbal or textual cues. Predictions regarding these processes are suggested, and future research incorporating these points is urged.
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