Date of Award

1-1-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Heather Crandall

Second Advisor

Dr. John Caputo

Abstract

Electronic communication is clearly becoming a reliable and chosen form of communication. The goal of this study is to determine how users perceptions of electronic communication, specifically text-based electronic communication, including e-mail, instant messaging, text messaging, and the social media networks Twitter and Facebook, impacts interpersonal relationships. Knowing how electronic communication affects our relationships will help users ensure they use electronic communication to its fullest potential and in the most effective way. This study begins by identifying and explaining the aspects of communication theory and their application to the affect on personal relationships by electronic communication. After reviewing the literature on the topic of electronic communication and relationships, new research conducted is analyzed to demonstrate how relationships are impacted by electronic communication. The results of this study find that, when used correctly, user perception is that electronic communication positively impacts interpersonal relationships.

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