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Deception and Misrepresentation in On-line Relationships
A study conducted by Metts in 1989 found that 92 per cent of people had reportedly lied to their romantic partner at least once. However, the Internet provides the opportunity for greater levels of misrepresentation. Particularly in the early stages of a relationship when commitment is low, and self-presentation and enhancement agendas are paramount, according to Tice et al (1995) In an empirical study of commitment and misrepresentation on the internet Cornwell and Lundgren (2001) surveyed 80 chat-room users. Half about their 'realspace' relationships, and half about their cyberspace relationships. They found that 'realspace' relationships were considered to be more serious, with greater feelings of commitment, than the cyber-relationship participants. Both groups, however, reported similar levels of satisfaction and potential for 'emotional growth' with regard to romantic relationships. Cornwell and Lundgren went on to ask about whether the participants had misrepresented themselves to their partner in a number of areas: their interests (e.g hobbies, musical tastes); their age; their background; their appearance and 'mis-presentation of yourself in any other way' (p.203). Participants responded using either yes or no to each question, and their score was summed into a misrepresentation measure.