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Computer-Mediated Communication

1996/02/01 by Joseph B. Walther, JOSEPH B. WALTHER · 4,756 citations
Psychology · Social Sciences · #Artificial intelligence #Cognitive psychology #Communication studies #Computer science #Computer-mediated communication #Epistemology #Interpersonal communication #Knowledge Management and Sharing #Normative #Perspective (graphical) #Point (geometry) #Psychology #Public Relations and Crisis Communication #Social psychology #Sociology #Team Dynamics and Performance #The Internet

paper · doi:10.1177/009365096023001001

published in Communication Research 23(1), 3-43 (SAGE Publishing)

openalex publication_date 1996/02/01 · openalex created_date 2017/01/26 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/05

Abstract

While computer-mediated communication use and research are proliferating rapidly, findings offer contrasting images regarding the interpersonal character of this technology. Research trends over the history of these media are reviewed with observations across trends suggested so as to provide integrative principles with which to apply media to different circumstances. First, the notion that the media reduce personal influences—their impersonal effects—is reviewed. Newer theories and research are noted explaining normative “interpersonal” uses of the media. From this vantage point, recognizing that impersonal communication is sometimes advantageous, strategies for the intentional depersonalization of media use are inferred, with implications for Group Decision Support Systems effects. Additionally, recognizing that media sometimes facilitate communication that surpasses normal interpersonal levels, a new perspective on “hyperpersonal” communication is introduced. Subprocesses are discussed pertaining to receivers, senders, channels, and feedback elements in computer-mediated communication that may enhance impressions and interpersonal relations.

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