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What is “Hyperpersonal model”?
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The Overview of “Hyperpersonal model”
What is Hyperpersonal model?
The hyperpersonal model is a model of computer-mediated communication (CMC) that suggests online interactions can become more intense and socially desirable than face-to-face (FtF) communication.
This happens because CMC allows individuals to selectively present themselves and manage impressions more effectively, leading to idealized perceptions and heightened intimacy.
The model, proposed by Joseph Walther in 1996, has applications in online relationships, social media, and group dynamics, where communication can surpass traditional forms in its impact.
Why Does Hyperpersonal Communication Occur?
Hyperpersonal communication occurs primarily because CMC gives users the opportunity to present their idealized self-images selectively.
For instance, unlike face-to-face communication, text-based interactions allow individuals to carefully craft their messages over time, emphasizing positive traits and hiding negative ones.
Furthermore, recipients tend to interpret messages in a way that is most favorable to them, often idealizing the sender.
As a result, both parties may quickly form an intimate relationship based on these idealized images, leading to a communication experience that feels more intense and personal than typical face-to-face interactions.
Key Elements of the Hyperpersonal Model
The hyperpersonal model is built on four key elements:
- Selective Self-Presentation by the Sender
The sender can selectively present themselves, highlighting positive aspects and downplaying negative traits. - Idealization by the Receiver
The receiver is likely to interpret the sender’s messages in an idealized manner, enhancing the perceived attractiveness or desirability of the sender. - Feedback Loop
This mutual idealization and positive feedback reinforce the relationship, leading to a more intense connection. - Media Characteristics
Features of CMC, such as the ability to edit messages and the asynchronous nature of communication, facilitate hyperpersonal interactions.
Applications of the Hyperpersonal Model
The hyperpersonal model is applicable in various fields, such as online dating, social media interactions, and online support groups.
In online dating, for instance, users often curate their profiles to present an idealized version of themselves, aiming to attract potential partners.
On social media, users selectively share aspects of their lives, receiving feedback from followers that can further enhance their online persona.
Application in Marketing
The hyperpersonal model is also valuable in marketing.
Companies can carefully craft their online brand image, selectively presenting themselves in a way that resonates with their target audience.
By doing so, they can foster a more personal connection with consumers, who may idealize the brand based on the carefully managed online presence.
Furthermore, personalized marketing techniques can be used to deliver messages that align with consumers’ idealized self-images, enhancing engagement and brand loyalty.
Conclusion
The hyperpersonal model shows that online communication can rival, or even exceed, face-to-face interactions in terms of intimacy and intensity.
Understanding and applying this model is crucial in today’s digital society, offering individuals and businesses key insights into more effective communication strategies.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia article “Hyperpersonal model” which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 4.0. Additionally, the texts and images were generated using ChatGPT.