Evaluation of Structure, Interaction, Anonymity and Self-Representation in Four Social Networks of the Virtual World

This paper studies and compares elements of social networks, including structure, interaction, user anonymity and self-representation, in the following social networks: a) Yahoo chat rooms, b) Yahoo Groups, c) OkCupid (online dating network), and (d) Facebook. The paper addresses the question as to the relationship between structural elements and user actions in the four networks. It proposes a model build on Thomas theory and on Lindlof and Taylor’s qualitative approach to communication in order to provide a better understanding into user actions in the virtual world. The paper also redefines notions of voluntary groups, circles and aggregates, and dyads. Results suggest that user self-representation is influenced by structural elements of the network, anonymity and norms of the virtual world.