What is Non-Social CMC Use

Interpersonal communication is the number one use of home computers (the Pew Internet & American Life Project, 2001). Despite the growing literature, there is still debate about the social and psychological effects of CMC use, especially regarding its impact on interpersonal relationships. In this chapter, I discuss the use of CMCs for maintenance of long-distance interpersonal relationships and for exchange of social support when individuals have limited availability for personal face-to-face contact. A summary of recent research examining the prevalence of CMC use by people on the go or in transitions is presented, followed by a discussion of the effects of this communication medium on their daily functioning. Then, specific features of online communications that make them favorable over other mediums for interpersonal contact with both nearby and distant social network members are discussed.