Cyber psychology and the shifting persona of the cyber...

Cyber psychology and the shifting persona of the cyber citizen: Who is the self in the virtual world? The Internet has grown faster and has become more invasive and integrated into our lives than most people could have ever imagined. Since the year 2000, Internet usage has increased by 566%. [1] Current statistics estimate that 63.2% of Western Europeans are digitally active on a regular basis. When broken down generationally, 93% of teenagers are active. [2] From this and the constant progression of technology we can assume 100% of Europeans will be classed as digital citizens in the year 2020. Indeed Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google, has gone as far as to say that 100 % of the world’s population will be online in the year 2020 [3]†¦show more content†¦[8] This is merely a transitional issue and as boundaries are set and followed it will improve. Individuals share their opinions and support, and, at a larger level people create tools, facilities and groups where they attempt to influence the society. As in terrestrial society people are setting up communities where like-m inded people can gather. Unlike terrestrial society however there are no physical boundaries to participation. This has facilitated the sharing of knowledge at a level and ease never seen before. People who previously didn’t have a voice now have the freedom to express their opinions and the Internet is alive with people debating issues that they are passionate about with people they have never met, and in all probability never will. This does not mean these friendships are any less valid. In their paper on Evolutionary Cyber Psychology, Jared Piazza and Jesse M. Bering state that online relationships (much like ofï ¬â€šine relationships) progress through sequences representing increasing levels of trust, such as ï ¬ rst sharing email addresses, then phone numbers, and ï ¬ nally home addresses (Whitty Gavin, 2001) and that research (e.g. McKenna Bargh, 2000) suggest that certain unique aspects of the Internet, i.e. visual anonymity and privacy, can be beneficial. Peop le who are suffering from identity and sexuality issues can often find support in groups. This online support and acceptance can often help them in their day-to-day life. To know there areShow MoreRelatedFundamentals of Hrm263904 Words   |  1056 Pagesrich, structured environment that’s available 24/7 Instructors personalize and manage their course more effectively with assessment, assignments, grade tracking, and more manage time better study smarter save money From multiple study paths, to self-assessment, to a wealth of interactive visual and audio resources, WileyPLUS gives you everything you need to personalize the teaching and learning experience.  » F i n d o u t h ow t o M A K E I T YO U R S  » www.wileyplus.com ALL THE HELP,