CN we b txtm8s?: An exploratory study on the textmate phenomenon

• Main Authors: Lim, Maria Nicole A., Thakur, Angela L., Torres, Celina Maria B.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2009
• Subjects: Interpersonal relations; Intimacy (Psychology); Mobile communication systems
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/8011
• Institution: De La Salle University

The textmate phenomenon has been widespread but the relationship itself is so scarcely studied. This study was conducted to discover how textmate relationships develop and whether these relationships are comparable to face-to-face relationships. The researchers used Content Analysis to study the diaries the participants kept during the study. Interviews were also conducted to clarify interesting points in their diaries. The researchers discovered that the textmate relationship contains high levels of intimacy, self-disclosure and impression management and progresses in six different stages: Acquaintance Verification, Basics and Similarities, Fixed Associations, Unstructured Banter, Disclosures and Romantic. It was also found that meeting up with their textmates can transform their textmate relationship to a genuine, face-to-face relationship.