Social Information Processing Theory ( CMC )

Abstract Social information processing theory explains how individuals use computer‐mediated communication to develop interpersonal impressions and to advance relational communication over time online. The theory focuses on how communicators adapt to the absence of nonverbal cues when using a medium that is generally restricted to textual symbols. The theory stipulates that the information processing of such code systems requires more time than face‐to‐face communication in order to achieve similar levels of interpersonal development. This entry reviews its basic tenets, empirical support, theoretical revisions, challenges from alternative theoretical perspectives, and implications of newer forms of computer‐mediated communication for the theory's status.