Chapter 12 CMC in PR by Wright & Webb

Johnson and Becker explain the new definitions and boundaries of friendship utilizing mediated channels in this chapter.  The concept of traditional forms friendship has been studied over the centuries. Now with the advent of the internet and instant communication, the notions of friendship have slowly shifted from normal day expectations to unrealized potential.  Why are trends in long distance or long ago friendships becoming stronger? Why is there a sudden shift from long distance relationships once thought to be a slow predictable demise, now being solidified more often? Elastic bonds that span great distances are being sought after more often than in the past. The notion where friendships go through dormant eras, or resemble flexible bonds have now been modified due to the new trends in CMC. Recent studies reveal the trends of understanding distance are being changed rapidly as well as satisfactions of having long distance relationships. Depending on the media relationship research indicate that people feel a sense of reward with long distance relationships. Telephone research indicates the personal interactions between individuals is a more of an enriching experience than email. Email provides a longer time period to correspond with each other by use of editing or crafting messages to each other. Instant messaging trends indicate a more intimate sharing of details than face to face interactions. Social Networking Sites offer a plethora of media interaction alternatives, as well as a vehicle to conduct romantic, business, family or relationship maintenance all in one website.

My thoughts: When I was growing up long distance social relationships were maintained via correspondence of a letter or sending cards.  My mom was German so there were plenty of letters for her to write, or phone calls to make. Yet her European code of ethics were to be enforced for long distance contacts more than local friends, If someone didn’t send a Christmas card this year, mom made sure to call them or not send one back the proceeding year! Phone calls were occasional per year and limited to the holidays as German phone lines not always being accessible or poor connections in the rural areas. To me the word “Pen Pal” was an term that made us envious of classmates who had contacts in other parts of the world with people they never met in person. Not everyone was so lucky I thought. But now with the help of modern technological advancements these epochs of communication are dated as well as feelings that go into maintaining relationships. Now there are even more unwritten communication codes or edicts per respondent in a few hours than what my mother use to practice in one year.