The Impact of the Internet on Serious Relationships

Posted in: Current, Projects, Words Tagged: dissertation, internet, psychology, sociology 

The internet has unarguably revolutionised communication and interaction over the past two decades and augmented our capability to find and relate to others. People are able to connect in ways unimaginable twenty years ago – transcending culture, class and geographic location. What isn’t yet fully clear is the extent to which the internet is evolving our behaviour in relationships, specifically in regards to mate selection, online infidelity and relationship ethics.

This paper explores existing research and supplements it with primary research in the form of expert interviews and case studies of individuals participating in online relationships and sexual exchanges. The result will further our understanding on the formation, continuation and personal as well as social implications of online relationships as well as psychological causes for and effects of the use of random video-chat websites such as www.ChatRoulette.com and online matchmaking websites, such as www.eHarmony.com. This will provide a greater understanding of the role(s), if any, the internet has played in the evolution of serious relationships.

This is the synopsis of my dissertation-in-progress, which I will make available here once it’s gone through all the necessary channels with my university.