What is Social Information Processing Theory

‘Cues-filtered-out' models of computer-mediated communication (CMC) imply that mobile phone use can inhibit the formation of social relationships by limiting transmission of non-verbal or non-textual cues. However, social information processing theory suggests that, to limit such effects, users unconsciously adapt their communication styles. This article agrees with that conclusion, and further notes that technology generally is adopted in a manner consistent with existing social contexts. This article also argues that people use mobile phone technology to deliberately control social interactions, effecting such control through choices relating to conversational synchronicity, continuous connection, and selective self-presentation. Finally, this article argues that the evolution of mobile phone behaviour may have an impact on human minds and social norms.