Relationship Initiation and Formation on the Internet

Abstract

Recent national studies indicate that about 3% to 6% of current marriages or long-term partnerships began over the Internet. Relationships that have their origin in cyberspace can begin in a variety of ways, including social network sites, interest groups or blogs, and matching services. This review summarizes the recent but growing literature on relationship formation over the Internet. Differences in relationship initiation online versus in traditional off-line settings are discussed, and it is highlighted that the differences depend on the specific Internet venue in which people meet.

KEYWORDS:

• Internet matchmaking services
• online dating
• relationship initiation