how do cyber communication differs from communities in the real world with regards to behavior
To understand how cyber communication differs from communities in the real world with regards to behavior, we need to examine a few key aspects:
1. Anonymity and disinhibition: In cyber communication, individuals often have the ability to remain anonymous or use pseudonyms. This anonymity can lead to disinhibition, where people feel more free to express themselves without fear of judgment or consequences. As a result, behaviors in cyber communities can be more aggressive, confrontational, or extreme compared to real-world communities where individuals are more likely to be held accountable for their actions.
2. Lack of non-verbal cues: In face-to-face communication, we rely on non-verbal cues like facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice to interpret meaning. However, in cyber communication, these cues are absent or limited, leading to potential misinterpretation and misunderstandings. This lack of non-verbal cues may result in online behaviors that are more direct, blunt, or impersonal.
3. Diffusion of responsibility: Cyber communities often have a larger number of participants compared to real-world communities. This can create a diffusion of responsibility where individuals feel less accountable for their behavior due to the perception that others will intervene or be responsible. Consequently, this can lead to increased instances of online harassment, trolling, or other negative behaviors.
4. Information overload and echo chambers: In cyber communities, people have access to an overwhelming amount of information. This can lead to filter bubbles and echo chambers, where individuals are exposed only to opinions and perspectives that align with their own. This reinforcement of beliefs can intensify behavior, as people may feel more empowered to express extreme or polarized views without facing immediate opposition.
5. Permanence of digital footprint: Unlike in real-world communities where interactions are often transient, cyber communication leaves a permanent digital footprint. This creates a unique dynamic, as people may behave differently online knowing that their actions are recorded and can have long-lasting consequences. Moreover, the potential for anonymity in cyber communication may further embolden individuals to engage in behavior they wouldn't exhibit offline.
In conclusion, cyber communication differs from real-world communities with regards to behavior due to factors such as anonymity, lack of non-verbal cues, diffusion of responsibility, information overload, and the permanence of digital footprint. These distinctions can contribute to online behaviors that are more aggressive, confrontational, extreme, and can lead to the formation of echo chambers and filter bubbles.