Abstract

The way we think about relationships today has evolved significantly from the way we thought about relationships many years ago. Relationships that were once maintained primarily via face-to-face interactions have become maintainable through information and communication technologies (ICTs) like instant messenger, text messaging, email, social networking sites, video conferencing and the like. As ICTs continue to develop and relational maintenance behaviors and processes shift, it becomes increasingly important that the impact of ICTs on maintaining relationships be explored. Yes, computer-mediated communication has transformed the dynamic of interpersonal relationships and the way they are maintained - but why? and to what degree? How does the way an individual uses ICTs influence the path his/her relationship travels? These are a few questions this study aims to address through interview and survey data analysis. Ultimately, this study will provide a deeper understanding of how ICTs are being utilized to achieve relational maintenance goals.

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