The Essential Role of Transparency in Virtual Relationships

Technology has changed society, especially the way we socialize. It is common to own a personal phone, tablet, or computer. Mobile devices and computers have facilitated diverse relationship-building opportunities, including friendships, acquaintances, and romantic connections. A lot of us are capable of having more interactions with people online than in person. Its advantages likely explain why it’s our preferred method for building and maintaining relationships. However, this raises ethical dilemmas, such as disclosing online relationships to romantic partners, friends, and family. Disclosure of online relationships can present an ethical dilemma.

Ways to Meet People Online

Developing relationships using technology is almost inevitable for many who are actively using these devices and platforms – intentionally or not. With phones always accessible, these friendships offer highly convenient and instant communication. Online methods for meeting people include dating apps, social gaming, virtual classes/groups, and social media. Playing online games or watching movies online using platforms such as TeleParty has made long-distance relationships easier to develop naturally. These friendships are extremely convenient since most people always have their phones with them – making communication portable and instant. One must always consider the ethical dilemma of disclosing these online relationships.

The Pros

It was incredibly useful for me, when I was vegan, to find and connect with other vegans. I didn’t know many in person but found it incredibly useful to meet with other vegans online. Finding a connection with people is very valuable in self-identity and growth. In addition to meeting other vegans, I have also developed a lot of unexpected friendships by playing games I love and by working with organizations online. I am sure that having these online relationships wouldn’t change my values, but it has been something I am very grateful to have during my lifetime. It’s important, though, to address the disclosure of these online relationships and the ethical dilemmas they can present.

Online friendships can be valuable resources for combating loneliness, depression, and low self-esteem while fostering a sense of belonging. This can be particularly helpful for those experiencing trauma or simply having a difficult day. The ability to instantly connect online with a professional or friend is invaluable. This highlights the need for clear guidelines regarding the ethical dilemma of disclosing online relationships.

Online friends can be from all over the world, which means most are long-distance friendships. Friends from different countries provide insights into diverse global cultures and environments.

The Cons

Individual disclosure of online relationships differs, but one scenario warrants careful consideration. Extensive online engagement can create an illusion of intimacy among some followers. This can lead to stalking, trespassing, and other forms of harassment by viewers/fans. While their intentions may not always be malicious, their actions remain unacceptable. The point is, that for any reason, this behavior is not acceptable. Online social activities have age restrictions, but this doesn’t fully address the issue. Beyond platform rules, awareness and education are crucial for handling these issues. Open and honest disclosure of online relationships, particularly the level of engagement and the potential for misinterpretation, is crucial in mitigating these risks.

Online Safety Educational Resources:

Securing accounts, devices, and connections – www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en

Digital citizen complex lesson plans – www.commonsense.org/education/articles/23-great-lesson-plans-for-internet-safety

The Ethics

Disclosing online relationships is something many do not currently do, but I think we should change this. We of course are entitled to keeping our personal life, well, personal – but depending on our situations I don’t think it should always be. Circumstances where I believe we should ethically disclose online relationships (romantic or not) would be to a romantic partner or to parents of children under 18. Having intimate/close online friendships or online affairs that are not disclosed and kept a secret from romantic partners is a common moral issue. Online secrecy can potentially lead to having a whole other online identity that others (in person) do not know about. The disclosure of online relationships can be seen as an ethical dilemma.

I believe the main problem with poor ethics in online relationships comes from the fact that it is currently much easier to keep secrets virtually from others and hide identities. Of course, some people can be tracked in criminal situations but it can be difficult with tools like VPNs (virtual private networks) and identity theft. The ethical dilemma arises when the disclosure of these online relationships contradicts the ease of hiding identities.

Having internet and virtual relationships is a blessing and I hope more realize that and value it and not take advantage of it and use it in negative ways. By setting an example of acceptable behavior, looking out for others, and creating more awareness I believe we can help reduce the negatives associated with virtual relationships. This can mitigate the ethical dilemmas associated with disclosure of online relationships.

“The internet has allowed me to connect with people who ‘get me,’ offering a level of understanding and support I might not have found elsewhere.”

– Unknown

Like this read? Check out Relationship with Others: The Art of Building Healthy Relationships with Others to explore the many other ways to improve your relationship with others.
Brought to you by The Human Experience.