Psychological Aspects of Cyberspace: Theory, Research, Applications

Cambridge University Press, 7/3/2008
EAN 9780521694643, ISBN10: 0521694647

Paperback, 318 pages, 24.8 x 17.8 x 1.8 cm
Language: English

Hundreds of millions of people across the world use the Internet every day. Its functions vary, from shopping and banking to chatting and dating. From a psychological perspective, the Internet has become a major vehicle for interpersonal communication that can significantly affect people's decisions, behaviors, attitudes and emotions. Moreover, its existence has created a virtual social environment in which people can meet, negotiate, collaborate and exchange goods and information. Cyberspace is not just a technical device but a phenomenon which has reduced the world to a proverbial global village, fostering collaborations and international cooperations; thus reducing the barriers of geographical distance and indigenous cultures. Azy Barak and a team of prominent social scientists review a decade of scientific investigations into the social, behavioral and psychological aspects of cyberspace, collating state-of-the-art knowledge in each area. Together they develop emerging conceptualizations and envisage directions and applications for future research.

Preface
1. Reflections on the psychology and social science of cyberspace Azy Barak and John Suler
2. Privacy, trust and disclosure online Carina B. Paine and Adam N. Joinson
3. Internet abuse
emerging trends and lingering questions Janet Morahan-Martin
4. Flow experience in cyberspace
current studies and perspectives Alexander E. Voiskounsky
5. Cybertherapeutic theory and techniques John Suler
6. Exposure in cyberspace as means of enhancing psychological assessment Azy Barak and Liat Hen
7. Down the rabbit hole
the role of place in the initiation and development of online relationships Andrea J. Baker
8. The sexy side of the internet
an examination of sexual activities and materials in cyberspace Monica Whitty and William A. Fisher
9. The contact hypothesis reconsidered
interacting via internet
theoretical and practical aspects Yair Amichai-Hamburger
10. Influences on the nature and functioning of online groups Katelyn Y. A. McKenna (Yael Kaynan)
11. Online motivational factors
incentives for participation and contribution in Wikipedia Sheizaf Rafaeli and Yaron Ariel
12. How internet-mediated research changes science Ulf-Dietrich Reips.