Some theorists argue that, "...the use of e-mail enables people who are peripheral in groups to become more visible. This means that people of lower status can easily communicate with those of higher status" (Module 3: Online Personal Relationships).

Another category that benefits from the Internet in terms of personal relationships is those who prefer not to interact with others conventionally due to fear or a perception that going out into society is dangerous. In an article entitled Social anxiety, Internet use and personal relationships on the Internet (2004), Nishimura states that, "People who had a high level of trait social anxiety, especially those under twenty years of age, were highly motivated to use the Internet for the formation of personal relationships" (Nishimura, 2004, p.124).

However, despite these positive aspects, many pundits do not always see the Internet as an ideal platform for the development of personal relationships. The study...
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